Sustainable valorisation of poultry processing by-products: green technologies and circular economy perspectives

The global poultry industry, while essential for meeting rising protein demands, generates substantial quantities of underutilised processing by-products, posing significant environmental and public health risks. With global poultry production projected to reach 160 million metric tonnes by 2033, there is an urgent need to transition from conventional disposal methods towards sustainable, value-added solutions. This review critically evaluates innovative green technologies, such as enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction and supercritical fluid extraction, for extracting high-value materials such as collagen, gelatin and bioactive peptides from poultry slaughter residues. By integrating these advancements within circular economy frameworks, the valorisation of poultry by-products can transform by-products into functional materials for food and packaging industries. The review systematically aligns these technologies with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising their role in enhancing resource efficiency, reducing environmental impact and supporting economic development. This comprehensive analysis underscores the transformative potential of poultry by-products valorisation in fostering a sustainable and resilient agri-food system.