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Nutrients and Nutraceuticals from Vitis vinifera L. Pomace: Biological Activities, Valorization, and Potential Applications

Summary

Wine production generates millions of tons of grape pomace (the leftover skins, seeds, and stems) annually, which has traditionally been discarded as waste. This review shows that grape pomace is actually rich in valuable nutrients and compounds like polyphenols and fiber that provide significant health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and disease-fighting properties. By using grape pomace in functional foods, supplements, and cosmetics, the wine industry can reduce waste while creating sustainable products that promote human health.

Background

Grape pomace (wine pomace) is a significant by-product of winemaking representing 20-25% of total grape weight, with global production around 10 million tons annually. Traditionally discarded as waste causing environmental and economic concerns, recent studies have highlighted its rich nutritional and bioactive potential for sustainable valorization in functional food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.

Objective

This review comprehensively analyzes the nutrient and nutraceutical contents of grape pomace, including polyphenols, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and melatonin. The study explores the biological activities of grape pomace extracts, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects, and examines its technological potential for applications in food and cosmetic industries.

Results

The review identifies grape pomace as containing high levels of polyphenols (0.28-8.70 g/100g), dietary fiber (40-56% in red grape skins), vitamins, minerals (K, P, Mg, Ca), and melatonin (0.902 µg/kg dry weight). Multiple studies demonstrate antioxidant activity through ROS scavenging, anti-inflammatory effects via TNF-α reduction, antimicrobial properties against various pathogens, and antiproliferative effects in cancer cell lines.

Conclusion

Grape pomace represents a valuable resource for circular economy valorization with multifunctional biological properties suitable for nutraceutical, food supplement, and cosmetic applications. The rich composition of bioactive compounds supports its potential as a sustainable solution for waste reduction while promoting human health and environmental resilience.
  • Published in:Nutrients,
  • Study Type:Systematic Review,
  • Source: PMID: 39940441, DOI: 10.3390/nu17030583
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