Utilization of Shrimp Shell Waste for Nutritional Enhancement of Edible Oils: A Case Study Using Sunflower Oil

Abstract

Shrimp shell waste, a major by-product of India’s seafood industry, presents both an environmental challenge and a valuable opportunity for sustainable resource utilization. This study explores the nutritional fortification of sunflower oil through thermal extraction of bioactive compounds from shrimp shell waste. A simple boiling process facilitated the migration of protein and essential minerals; potassium, calcium, sodium and zinc into the oil phase, resulting in a measurable enhancement of its nutritional profile. Protein content increased from 0 to 0.06%, while mineral concentrations also showed significant enrichment. Comparative analysis with existing literature confirmed the nutrient density of shrimp shell byproducts, including their high ash content and balanced amino acid composition. The findings underscore the potential of shrimp shell waste as a functional ingredient for food, feed and nutraceutical applications, while promoting circular economy principles and waste utilisation in seafood processing.