Potencial de valorização do soro de leite como recurso energético e industrial: uma análise sistemática da literatura

Abstract

Mid contemporary environmental challenges and the growing demand for sustainable solutions, the valorization of industrial organic waste has gained prominence as a key strategy for energy transition and the advancement of a circular economy. In this context, whey, a by- product generated on a large scale by the dairy industry, poses a significant pollution risk when improperly discarded, but also has a nutrient-rich composition that makes it a viable raw material for the production of value-added compounds. This study presents a literature-based bibliographic analysis of the biotechnological utilization of whey for the production of biogas, hydrogen, ethanol, and lactic acid, focusing on the principles of the metabolic pathways, the microorganisms involved, and the optimal operational conditions. International scientific databases were used to identify technological advances, leading authors, active research areas, publication trends, and major challenges. The results reveal not only the technical potential of whey as a substitute for fossil-based resources and a means of environmental mitigation, but also the urgent need for public policies, economic incentives, and technological innovation to enable its industrial-scale application. Therefore, the valorization of this by-product stands out as an effective strategy to transform environmental liabilities into economic assets, promoting sustainability, clean energy, and industrial development.