Applications of bromelain extracted from pineapple (Ananas comosus) and pineapple by-products: A review toward sustainable industrial development
1 Department of Food Technology, School of Biotechnology, International University – Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
2 Department of Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, International University – Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
3 Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Biotechnology, International University – Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
4 Center for Innovation and Technology Transfer, International University – Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
5 Tan Phuoc Agricultural Pineapple Cooperative, Dong Thap Province.
Review
International Journal of Scholarly Research in Biology and Pharmacy, 2026, 07(01), 001-011.
Article DOI: 10.56781/ijsrbp.2026.7.1.0030
Publication history:
Received on 20 November 2025; revised on 02 January 2026; accepted on 05 January 2026
Abstract:
The objectives of this review are to overview the overall value of bromelain from pineapple (Ananas comosus) and its by-products, to examine key barriers to its industrial-scale uses in term of green technologies, to propose strategic solutions through innovations, policy supports, and cross-sector collaborations, and to emphasize their potential value together with future possibilities within the context of sustainable industrial development. The method used was a systematical evaluation of publications between 2000 and 2025 for in-depth literature and integrative insight of existing research while identifying new prospects for harnessing bromelain from pineapple waste as part of sustainable industrial transformation. The findings reveal that the by-products are high in bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme with numerous biological effects that is used in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, food processing, cosmetics, etc. Although bromelain’s functional properties and potential applications have been widely studied, most investigations remain confined to laboratory experiments or fragmented industrial uses, with limited focus on its broader role in promoting sustainable development and advancing circular bioeconomy models. Moreover, key obstacles such as variable enzyme yields, the absence of standardized extraction protocols, and insufficient integration between agricultural production and biotechnological innovation continue to restrict its large-scale utilization. This review highlights the strategic importance of aligning green extraction technologies, standardized processing, and cross-sector collaboration to unlock the full industrial and sustainability potential of bromelain derived from pineapple waste streams.
Keywords:
Ananas comosus; Bromelain; By-products; Pineapple; Sustainable development
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