Each time we peel a pomegranate , a fruit known for its vibrant color, sweet-tart flavor, and juicy seeds—we typically discard the peel without a second thought. However, this so-called “waste,” which often ends up in the trash, could actually be an incredibly valuable ingredient for both our health and the environment.
Pomegranate, a fruit native to Mediterranean-climate regions such as Northern Chile, generates a large amount of peel—almost half of its weight—that often goes unused. But did you know that this peel is packed with natural compounds that may combat aging, reduce inflammation, and even help prevent diseases?
In a world where we strive for healthier eating and a reduced environmental footprint, transforming byproducts like pomegranate peel into something valuable is an intriguing proposition. This seemingly waste material is rich in polyphenols—bioactive compounds known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.
These benefits motivated Bernardita La Fuente, a fourth-year student of Biological Engineering, to explore its potential under the line of research of the professors Wendy Franco, from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Bioprocesses and the Faculty of Medicine,and Francisca Echeverría, from the Faculty of Medicine.
Photograohy of Punica Granatum (pomegranate)
Together, they conducted research to harness the peel and turn it into a key ingredient for making tasty, healthy gummies—blending science, nutrition, and sustainability.
To extract the benefits of pomegranate peel, its bioactive compounds were carefully extracted from crushed peel using a mixture of water and ethanol—a low-toxicity alcohol. The solution was then concentrated using a rotary evaporator– a device that allows for the rapid and precise separation and concentration of substances, removing the alcohol from the mix in the process. The resulting extract was diluted in distilled water, creating what is known as Pomegranate Peel Extract (PPE).
The PPE was then analyzed, revealing a high concentration of polyphenols and antioxidants—compounds capable of neutralizing harmful substances in the body, such as free radicals. This suggests that incorporating the extract into our diets could offer substantial health benefits.
Extraction Process of Bioactive Compounds from Pomegranate Peel
Next Came the creative part: making the gummies. This phase involved developing a simple yet healthy recipe using gelatin, raspberry pulp, citric acid (for that tangy kick), and allulose. Three versions of the gummies were prepared: one without the extract (as a control), one with 5% PPE, and another with 10% PPE. The aim was to determine whether the health benefits of pomegranate peel could be incorporated without compromising the flavor or texture typically found in gummies.
Reference photo of the pomegranate gummies after production
The gummies were tested both in the lab and by potential consumers. Chemically, the gummies with higher concentrations of PPE showed lower levels of carbohydrates and fats, but higher protein content—suggesting that pomegranate peel contributes beneficial nutrients to the diet. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of the extract remained intact within the gummies, making them a “functional” snack that combines great taste with health benefits.
To assess their reception outside the lab, an organoleptic evaluation was conducted—this is a qualitative assessment of taste, color, texture, and overall acceptability—on a scale from 1 to 7, with the participation of 55 volunteers. While the gummies with PPE scored slightly lower, they were still comparable to traditional gummies, which surprised the research team. This suggests that adding an acidic and unconventional ingredient like PPE did not negatively impact the sensory experience for consumers. However, it was observed that as the amount of PPE increased, the gummies became more opaque, and the flavor became more intense—factors that could be adjusted in future formulations to make the gummies even more appealing.
Biological Engineering Student
Department of Chemical Engineering and Bioprocesses
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Medicine
This undergraduate research not only confirmed the potential of pomegranate peel as a source of bioactive compounds but also explored its transformation into a key ingredient for an attractive and nutritious product. The PPE gummies serve as a proof of concept that innovation in the kitchen is possible using agricultural waste,something particularly relevant in a country like Chile, where sustainability is an urgent concern. Although the gummies without the extract were more popular, the healthier versions showed a promising balance of health benefits and flavor, opening the door to further research and formulation adjustments to create the perfect product.
This research encourages us to reconsider the value of what we commonly discard. Thanks to the work of students like Bernardita, science shows that it is possible to transform waste into solutions that benefit both our health and the environment. It is a call for sustainable innovation and a push to explore new ways of utilizing resources more efficiently.
Biological Engineering Student
