Olive Oil Wastes Valorization for High Value Compounds Production

The consumption of olive oil is deeply rooted in human history and the production of olive oil contributes greatly to the economy of Mediterranean countries. Olive oil is generally extracted following three different methods; the traditional pressing method, two-phase decantation system and three-phase decantation system. These extraction processes generate mainly two different types of waste which are olive mill solid waste (OMSW) and olive mill wastewater (OMWW). Olive mill by-products are considered a major environmental hazard in Mediterranean regions as they are high in phenol, lipid and organic acid content. To eliminate this problem, valorization of these waste products is the need of the hour. Phytochemical compounds like phenols, and flavonoids are important and useful for pharmaceutical industries. Other than the recovery of these value-added compounds, olive waste can be used as animal feed and a source of clean energy. Biological treatment of these wastes reduces the percentage of phenols and organic acids and then it can be used in agricultural applications. The valorization strategies of olive mill wastes depend on factors like socio-economic conditions, and agricultural and industrial environments. In this chapter, the olive oil production process, phytochemical characteristics of generated waste and their environmental impact are discussed. This discussion also emphasized the available valorization techniques of olive oil by-products, their advantages, and disadvantages.