A Thematic Review of Food Waste Reduction and By-Product Utilization in Food Processing: Implications for Sustainable Food Systems and Home Economics

Abstract. One of the most important issues facing contemporary food systems is food waste, which has detrimental effects on economic efficiency, environmental sustainability, and food security. Food losses are especially noticeable during postharvest handling and processing in poor nations like the Philippines, particularly among small and medium-sized businesses and home-based processors. This topical review examines food waste reduction and the use of food processing by-products from the viewpoints of sustainability and the circular economy, synthesizing research from the Philippines, other countries, and the region. The review examines the main causes of food waste, value-adding applications of by-products, technological advancements, and educational consequences using institutional reports and peer-reviewed research. The analysis reveals persistent deficiencies, including the insufficient alignment of policy and practice, ineffective community-based valorization initiatives, and limited incorporation of by-product utilization in home economics education. Overall, the analysis emphasizes how crucial home economics is to fostering entrepreneurship, sustainable food processing, and knowledgeable consumer behavior that supports robust and inclusive food systems.