From Waste to Resource: A Review of Food Waste Generation and Industrial Applications in Malaysian Urban Center

Abstract

The proliferation of food waste in Malaysia's urban areas has escalated due to swift urbanisation, a rising population, and evolving consumption patterns, posing significant environmental and economic issues. This research examines the trends in food waste generation in Malaysia and evaluates the possibility for transforming this waste into useful resources via industrial uses. The research examines the origins and quantities of food waste through the analysis of previous studies, alongside emerging methods such as anaerobic digestion, incineration, and composting. It highlights prospects for industrial application, including bioenergy production and organic fertiliser manufacturing, while recognising challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, legislative deficiencies, and little public awareness. The results suggest that implementing circular economy concepts in urban waste management may enhance sustainability and economic advantages, positioning Malaysian cities as leaders in food waste valorisation.