Asparagus Cultivation Co-Products: From Waste to Chance

Abstract

Asparagus cultivation produces enormous amounts of biomass (leaves, stems, fruits, roots and rhizomes) that currently lacks of economic value at the time that implies an environmental challenge. From the bioeconomy point of view an added-value must be given to these co-products to shift their consideration from waste to chance. They are rich in phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, fructans and saponins, which can be easily extracted and purified by green and environmental friendly processes. Those bioactive extracts are of great interest for several industrial sectors. The exploitation of this biomass will represent an increase in the incomes of asparagus growers and life standard enhancement of rural areas.