Starch from Industrial and Agricultural Byproducts

Typically, starch is obtained from conventional sources, such as corn, wheat, potato, and tapioca. However, the growing interest in resource recovery, the need for efficient waste management, and sustainable practices have driven research into the valorization of byproducts through starch extraction. Fruits and vegetables, along with their industrial processing derivatives, are essential for the human diet, and their production has increased with the growth of the global population, which, in turn, increases their waste. This waste includes seeds, pulp, peel, and pomace, all of which may contain significant amounts of starch. However, their recovery depends on efficient extraction methods, the quality and quantity of starch, and the expected physicochemical properties for bioplastics production. By overcoming these challenges, multiple benefits can be expected, such as contributing to a circular economy and reducing the environmental impact of renewable residues. Food security and soil and water conservation can also be improved by using organic waste instead of plant crops specifically for starch production. Therefore, this chapter addresses the potential of agricultural and industrial byproducts as alternative and sustainable sources for the future of the starch-based bioplastics industry.