Chitin and chitosan are biodegradable polymers that are extracted from the shells of crustaceans such as shrimps, shellfishes, crabs and lobsters. These seafood wastes are usually discarded unfortunately, but instead they should be collected from food companies and households because they have numerous benefits otherwise.
Image from https://www.axiobio.com/chitosan/
Application areas of chitin and chitosan are in:
- Pharmaceuticals (treats obesity, high cholesterol, Crohn’s disease, anemia, insomnia)
- Food industry (food additive)
- Cosmetics
- Wastewater treatment
- Soil conditioners
Comments (2)
Besides food companies and households restaurants could also be a source for these kind of wastes.
Yes Laura, thank you for your contribution, it is a great idea to extend the suppliers to restaurants too.