Valorization of agricultural byproducts from Rubus glaucus Benth (blackberry) as a natural source of high value-added ingredients

Abstract The sustainable utilization of agro-industrial waste and byproducts has gained increasing attention for its potential to generate value-added products. Rubus glaucus Benth (Andean blackberry) is particularly interesting because of its high content of antioxidant and volatile compounds. However, postharvest losses caused by diseases and fruit quality issues result in significant economic setbacks for farmers. This study aims to increase the value of Rubus glaucus Benth byproducts by characterizing their bioactive compounds and exploring their potential applications. Pruning residues, healthy fruits, and affected fruits were collected and analyzed. Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC‒MS) was used to identify volatile compounds in the fruits, whereas antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP assays) and liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (LC‒MS) were employed to assess the phenolic composition of the pruning residues. A total of 45 volatile organic compounds were identified. The antioxidant capacity of the pruning extracts ranged from 13.854 ± 0.270 to 33.882 ± 0.628 mmol Trolox per 100 g, indicating a significant presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids. These findings highlight the potential of Rubus glaucus Benth agro-industrial residues as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds, with promising applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This study demonstrates a viable pathway for waste valorization, contributing to the development of circular bioeconomic strategies and sustainable biorefinery processes.