The grape pomace is the main solid byproduct generated during wine production, and it is generally considered as waste. However, the growing concern regarding the negative impact on the environment caused by poor management of agro-industrial waste has encouraged the search for the management or utilization of byproducts.
In this sense, several studies have shown the potential of grape pomace as a source for obtaining various bioactive compounds (compounds with beneficial biological properties for humans), which could be used in the food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical industry.
In other words, although they are not considered nutrients, their intake through consumption of vegetables is highly related to health benefits. They have anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antithrombotic, anticancer, cardioprotective, and above all antioxidant effects.
Research and strategic collaborations
It is not surprising that research focused on human health is currently underway.
The project arises from an agreement between the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and Bodega Trivento. It focuses on investigating the antitumor properties of byproducts derived from wine and olive oil production, such as grape pomace and alperujo (a combination of vegetation water, pulp, and olive pit remnants).
Throughout the wine production process, various amounts of waste are generated. Among these wastes, the grape pomace represents the largest solid waste, reaching up to 30% of the total weight of grapes produced in vineyards. It is estimated that for every 6 liters of wine produced, 1 kilo of grape pomace is obtained.
An alliance with triple impact
Marcos Jofré, CEO of Trivento, highlighted that “We celebrate this agreement with the most important research organization in Argentina. It is an honor to work with the CONICET team on such a noble project that adds value to a key byproduct of viticulture, a strategic sector for the national economy.”
Walter Manucha, a CONICET researcher and director of the Institute of Experimental Medicine and Biology of Cuyo (IMBECU), emphasized the importance of collaboration stating that “Public-private agreements in areas of investment, training, and transfer are essential for the development of science and technology. The potential of CONICET in the health field is significant and must be communicated to society.”
Likewise, Ricardo Masuelli, director of the Institute of Agricultural Biology of Mendoza (IBAM), stressed that the use of “waste that usually ends up in composting to transform it into compounds useful for human health is an example of the value that applied research contributes.”
Impact of research on the use of grape pomace
The team in charge of the project is composed of specialists from IMBECU and IBAM, both belonging to CONICET. Mendoza, renowned for its wine and olive oil production, faces a significant environmental challenge due to the waste generated by these activities.
Among the key findings, grape pomace and alperujo were identified as sources of bioactive phenolic compounds with potential in the prevention of kidney, colon, breast, and prostate tumors, types of cancer with high incidence in Argentina.
Constanza López Fontana, CONICET researcher, explained that “There is a trend towards seeking natural compounds to prevent diseases. The polyphenols present in grapes and olives have beneficial effects on health.”
Finally, Joana Boiteux, IBAM researcher, highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary work: “The integration of perspectives and knowledge between IMBECU and IBAM has been key to proposing innovative solutions that benefit the industry, the environment, and the population in general.”
Have you visited our YouTube channel yet? Subscribe now!
