Eco-Enzyme from Agro-Waste as a Bio-Based Input for Sustainable Crop Production: A Review

Abstract

This review examines eco-enzyme (EE), a fermented liquid produced from fruit and vegetable waste, sugar and water, as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides. EE represents a sustainable approach to organic waste management while contributing to soil fertility and crop productivity. It contains organic acids, enzymes such as amylase, protease and lipase, and bioactive compounds including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and saponins, which collectively support diverse biological functions. These components enhance nutrient availability, stimulate beneficial microbial activity and suppress plant pathogens through antibacterial and antifungal effects. The acidic nature of EE facilitates the breakdown of complex organic matter, improving nutrient uptake by plants. In addition, EE has been reported to contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, along with antioxidant compounds that may enhance plant growth and stress tolerance. However, the application of EE is constrained by the lack of standardized production methods and limited long-term field validation. Overall, this review provides a consolidated assessment of the composition, mechanisms and agricultural potential of eco-enzyme, while identifying critical gaps that need to be addressed for its wider adoption in sustainable agriculture.