Work

From waste to resource: A review on advancing whey permeate valorization through anaerobic digestion

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The increasing demand for whey protein has led to a significant production of whey permeate as the byproduct. It is characterized by its high organic load, mostly in the form of lactose, but low in other nutrients. This represents both environmental risk and resource with high valorization potential. Despite of this, valorization of whey permeate is still less common when compared with other forms of wastewaters from the dairy industry. Among several methods to valorize the byproduct, anaerobic digestion (AD) has emerged as an attractive solution by offering simultaneous bioresource recovery and organic load removal. This review synthesizes current knowledge on whey permeate valorization through AD. First, whey permeate production, composition and current findings on direct and indirect utilizations of whey permeate are outlined. It is highlighted that while current utilization methods offer add value, many of whey permeate utilizations remain constrained by limitations (e.g., consumer acceptance, lactose crystallization, limited processing capacity and complexities for large volumes, and generation of secondary waste) that can be tackled through AD. The theoretical foundation of AD is then presented, with focus on process stages and key factors influencing AD performance. Published studies on whey permeate AD are critically reviewed, highlighting experimental designs, AD performance, and methodological limitations. This review identifies strengths in current approaches while underscoring persisting challenges such in effective optimization strategies. Finally, future research perspectives are discussed, pointing towards standardization of terminology to enhance reproducibility, process optimization, and viable route for advancing whey permeate AD. • Whey permeate presents high pollution risk when not properly treated. • Current whey permeate utilizations limited by processing cost and practicality. • Terminology inconsistencies limit reproducibility between whey permeate studies. • Anaerobic digestion offers a sustainable valorization strategy for whey permeate. • Literature on whey permeate AD is reviewed with critical insights.

Source: Journal of Environmental Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127695

Authors: Aldyon Restu Azkarahman, Denise Cysneiros, Afroditi Chatzifragkou, Kimon Andreas G. Karatzas

Institutions: University of Brawijaya, University of Reading

Language: English

Topic: Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Production

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,750