Fruit pomace-lignin as a sustainable biopolymer for biomedical applications

Previous studies have explored the potential of pomace valorization, with an emphasis on the transformation of polysaccharide biopolymers of pomace-cellulose and hemicellulose to produce high-value bioproducts such as microcrystalline cellulose. Notably, opportunities for the exploration of the biopolymer of pomace-lignin for its employment in biomedical applications such as tissue engineering have not been comprehensively explored. There is, therefore, a need for an intervention to highlight the potential of utilizing pomace-lignin as a high-value biomass resource. This review explores potential biomedical applications of pomace-lignin and highlights some of the factors that hinder the industrial utilization of pomace-lignin. In addition, the present review covers lignin chemistry, extraction methods, depolymerization approaches, and prospects of lignin utilization in biomedical applications. It is anticipated that this review will aid future decisions regarding the preferred approaches for the valorization of pomace-lignin. [Display omitted] •o The current status of pomace waste generation was discussed.•o Limitations of pomace valorization strategies were discussed.•o Misconceptions regarding lignin valorization were discussed.•o Anticipated breakthroughs on the use of pomace-lignin discussed.