Utilization of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) by-Products: An Overview

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is an important edible plant containing high levels of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, fiber, protein, and pectin. These bioactive compounds are known as good protective constituents against several human diseases. Tomato is processed into many products such as ketchup, paste, sauce, puree, soup, juice, and canned tomatoes. Considerable amounts of waste are generated after the tomato is processed. These wastes are sources of bioactive compounds that contribute to human health. More than half of the composition of tomato waste constituted of fiber and sugar, and protein. Besides, carotenoids are important minor components in tomato by-products. Among carotenoids, lycopene is a valuable component that is beneficial for human health. Tomato pomace, which is a by-product of tomato processing, consists of peel and seeds as well as small amounts of pulp. Seed, skin, and tomato pomace are generally reused in different products. Dried tomato wastes can be used as animal feed, and as additive in meat products. Seeds were incorporated into the bakery and fermented cereal food. The seeds are rich in oils with a high carotenoid amount, which contribute to the oxidative stability of the oil. Tomato seed oil can also be used in non-food applications such as biodiesel. This work discusses the utilization of tomato by-products in food ingredients, animal feed, and non-food applications. © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2022.