The next time you reach for the extra virgin olive oil to drizzle on your salad, spare a thought for the olive pits and leftover pulp.
Annually, the global olive oil industry produces 12 million tonnes of non-environmentally friendly residues (olive peels, pulp, stones, and wastewater).
Researchers are unlocking the hidden potential of these olive residues, revealing a treasure trove of health and beauty benefits. A recent review by researchers at the University of Barcelona in Spain dives into this field, revealing the potential pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications of olive oil by-products.
Published in SCI's Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, the review calls for a strategy to develop new applications for olive oil waste, noting that potential benefits include "positive environmental impacts, cost savings, and the creation of innovative, sustainable products that appeal to increasingly eco-conscious consumers."
"The olive holds a prominent place among the three foundational food crops of Mediterranean cuisine, alongside wheat and grapes," says Professor Maria Pérez Bosch, a researcher at the University of Barcelona and corresponding author of the review. "Cultivation of olive trees dates back to the 8th millennium BC in the Mediterranean region. Spain, serving as the world's foremost producer, accounts for nearly half of global olive oil production. However, olive oil production, while beloved for its culinary and health benefits, also generates substantial waste that poses environmental challenges."
The review highlights recent research on the potential cardiometabolic health benefits of olive oil by-products.
Reports suggest that olive pomace oil, a residue of the virgin olive oil extraction process, which is rich in bioactive compounds, might lower bad cholesterol and reduce visceral fat.
"Daily consumption of olive pomace oil consistently resulted in significant improvements in blood lipid profiles and adiposity," the review highlights.
Olive leaves are also a rich source of phenolic compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research suggests olive leaf extract (OLE) may help regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels. While these results are promising, the research is still in its early stages. The authors acknowledge, "more robust human studies are needed to better understand these effects."
Future research will focus on pinpointing the ideal dosage and treatment duration, as well as exploring any potential side effects.
The potential of olive waste extends beyond health: the high antioxidant content of olive residues are also attracting the attention of the beauty industry.
"Olive oil residues are of great interest to the cosmetic industry, with versatile applications," the review states. Their natural anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties could be the key to healthier, younger-looking skin.
While some preliminary studies on OLE-containing creams show promising results, more clinical trials are needed to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
"Addressing technical challenges in developing new beauty products containing components from olive mill waste is essential,’ Prof Maria Pérez Bosch emphasises. "This includes resolving issues such as allergies, ingredient stability, skin absorption, dispersion, interactions between active ingredients and vehicle components, as well as ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of the final cosmetic product."
"In my opinion, interdisciplinary research across chemistry, nutrition, medicine, food technology, engineering, and policy is crucial for maximising the potential of waste valorisation in the olive oil industry, leading to a more sustainable future," Prof Pérez Bosch asserts. "This research encompasses key areas such as optimising extraction processes to increase yields of bioactive compounds from olive mill waste, exploring the composition of waste for new applications, conducting clinical studies to assess product safety and efficacy, and integrating waste-derived compounds into cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Additionally, research into circular economy strategies and policy development is essential for overcoming barriers and promoting sustainable practices in the industry."
The potential of olive residues is a win-win for consumers and the environment. By transforming leftovers into functional health and beauty products, we can promote waste reduction and resource recovery, one olive stone at a time.
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