Page 50 - FoodFocusThailand No.225 December 2024

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STRATEGIC R & DTEGIC R & D

Transforming Shrimp By-Products

into Sustainable Resources

Shrimp is one of the most widely consumed and versatile seafood options, with countless methods for
preparation and cooking. Currently, global shrimp production exceeds 5 million tons, with major producing
countries including India, Ecuador, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. However, it is concerning that shrimp
production generates 35-45% waste, primarily in the form of shells and heads, totaling 1-2 million tons
annually. If we could transform these production by-products into valuable resources, we could reduce
waste and pollution while lowering carbon emissions. Such advancements could significantly contribute
to global sustainability efforts.

Shrimp by-products hold immense potential yet
remain relatively underexplored compared to other by-
products with established markets. Despite being
recognized as a “superfood,” processing shrimp by-
products requires specialized technology and expertise
that few venture into. This includes advanced machinery,
extraction techniques, and the use of enzymes, all of which
are critical steps in the process. However, significant
discoveries have been made regarding their value.
Notably, shrimp heads contain astaxanthin, often referred
to as the “king of antioxidants.” Additionally, the shells and
heads are sources of chitosan and essential amino acids,
which are important sources of protein.
Nutritional Applications and Potential
Industrial of Shrimp By-Products
• Peptides are created through hydrolysis, resulting ภาพที่่� 3 การนำำาผลิิตภััณฑ์์พลิอยได้้จากก้้งกลิับมาใช้้ใหม่เพ่�อเพิ�มมูลิค่่าอย่างยั�งย่นำ
in a mixture of short-chain peptides and free amino acids Figure 3 Upcycling shrimp by-product to sustainably enhance their value
for easier absorption. They can serve as a new source of
alternative protein for human, animal, plant, and even and aging by neutralizing free radicals and promoting vitality.
microorganism nutrition. In animal farming, for instance, In cosmetics, Astaxanthin reduces fine lines, boosts collagen production,
Peptides enhance feed intake, promote growth, and and improves skin elasticity. In aquaculture, Astaxanthin bolsters the
strengthen immunity, thereby maximizing the nutritional health of aquatic species and enhances their vibrant color. With the rise
value of each meal and contributing to healthier and more of intensive farming and population growth, antioxidants like Astaxanthin
productive livestock. Overall, Peptides are a replenishing are vital for managing stress and maintaining aquatic animals’ overall
and affordable solution for enhancing farming efficiency wellness.
and sustainability. • Probiotics are various live strains of beneficial bacteria and yeast.
• Chitosan, derived from shrimp shells, is In agriculture, Probiotics modulate soil microbiome and enhance nutrient
biodegradable, biocompatible, and possesses antibacterial, availability, leading to healthier crops and natural growth without overly
antifungal, chelating, and film- & gel-forming properties. relying on synthetic fertilizers. In aquaculture, Probiotics maintain a
In medicine, Chitosan protects against infections and balanced ecosystem by decomposing organic matter, breaking down
speeds up tissue regeneration, both of which are essential harmful bacteria and algae, and absorbing toxic gases, thereby reducing
for wound care and implants. In dietary supplements, the need for chemical treatments and promoting sustainable practices.
Chitosan helps control weight and cholesterol by binding Upcycling shrimp by-products can significantly reduce carbon
to dietary fats and preventing their absorption into the emissions. A study suggests that implementing upcycling practices and
body. In horticulture, Chitosan acts as a bio-stimulant, reapplying new solutions to agriculture could lower the carbon emissions
promoting plant growth and boosting resistance. In water of the shrimp industry by over 40% per kilogram of CO equivalent. This
2
purification and wastewater treatment, Chitosan serves reduction is relevant to global efforts to achieve net zero carbon
as an eco-friendly coagulant, binding impurities for emissions by 2050.
recycling instead of treating them as harmful waste.
• Natural Astaxanthin is a carotenoid well-known for
its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Scan QR code for references.
It protects cells from oxidative damage, supports immune
function, and enhances muscle endurance. In dietary
supplements, Astaxanthin helps combat oxidative stress

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