Resource Valorization of Sericulture Materials for Value-Added Products
Neha Sudan *
Department of Sericulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu, Chatha, Jammu and Kashmir- 180009, India.
Sapna Devi
Department of Sericulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu, Chatha, Jammu and Kashmir- 180009, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Sericulture produces a considerable amount of waste during various stages of silk production, including mulberry residues, silkworm litter, pupae, and reeling by-products, which may lead to environmental problems if not properly managed. However, most existing research has primarily focused on silk fiber production, while the potential of sericulture waste as a source of bioactive compounds, biomaterials, and industrial raw materials remains insufficiently explored. This review aims to examine the potential of these by-products for resource valorization and the development of value-added products. The analysis shows that these materials are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds and can be utilized in applications such as animal feed, organic fertilizers, vermicompost, biogas production, and recycled silk products. Overall, the study emphasizes the scientific and practical significance of converting sericulture waste into sustainable products to reduce environmental pollution, improve resource efficiency, and enhance economic returns in the sericulture sector.
Keywords: Sericulture, silkworm, waste, Bombyx mori