LCA modelling as a decision-tool for experimental design: the case of extraction of astaxanthin from crab waste

The worldwide consumption of crustaceans, mainly crabs and shrimp, has increased significantly over the last decades. Noteworthy is that this waste inherently contains high-value-added compounds, such as astaxanthin. Hence, it is economic- and environmentally beneficial to extract astaxanthin effectively and sustainably from seafood production wastes and thrive towards a circular economy. Therefore, the objective of this work is three-fold: (i) to propose a novel integrated process for the extraction of astaxanthin-oleoresin (AXT-oleoresin) from crab shell wastes; (ii) to assess the environmental performance of this new process at an industrial scale in Portugal; and, (iii) to identify latent production and environmental bottlenecks as well as provide suggestions for process and/or model re-design. A process environmental and human health impact must become an essential consideration when designing new processes. Henceforth, aiming at a more sustainable process development and production, by applying LCA at the early stage of process development, we aim to identify critical issues early on, then to re-design, and reassess. Hence, this study concludes that the side-by-side application of LCA modelling and experimental process development is the best proactive approach for designing new processes and strategies as early as at the experimental level.