Banana Peels: A Genuine Waste or a Wonderful Opportunity?

Banana is the second-highest fruit produced in the world and is a staple food for over 400 million people. Only 40% of the crop is utilised, leading to 114 million tonnes of banana waste annually. Banana peel constitutes about ~40% of the whole fruit, and it is considered a domestic and food industry waste. It is enriched with macronutrients, micronutrients and bioactive compounds, which can provide antioxidant, anti-microbial, antibiotic, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical properties. Banana peels also have higher nutrient value than banana pulp, and they are used in traditional medicines to treat diabetes, diarrhoea, inflammation, ulcers, burns and cough. Given its diverse bioactive properties, banana peel waste is now being explored within the framework of a circular economy to promote waste recycling and reduce environmental impact. This review highlights the nutritional and health properties of banana peel while providing opportunities for waste reduction. Potential applications of banana peels include anti-cancer and anti-fungal agents, biosorbents, natural emulsifiers, reducing agents, biofertilisers, food industry ingredients for bakery products, natural preservatives and food fortification. Exploring banana peel waste potential not only contributes to sustainable waste management but also enhances environmentally friendly innovation for the benefit of human health and the environment.