The Functional Food Innovation and Development Center (CIDAF) has played an active role in the implementation of four ambitious R&D projects aimed at transforming agri-food by-products and natural resources into sustainable solutions for the agricultural and food sectors. These initiatives, aligned with the principles of the circular bioeconomy, reaffirm CIDAF’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and rural development.
🔬 #BIOREVALEAF focused on the valorization of olive leaves, an abundant agricultural residue, through eco-friendly extraction processes and the use of microorganisms. The results include the development of agricultural biostimulants and enriched functional oils, contributing to circular fertilization and the production of healthier food.
🍅 #CHERRY4FOOD demonstrated the potential of cherry tomato skins and seeds—by-products from the salmorejo and gazpacho industries—to create functional ingredients for both ruminant feed and human food. The project led to the development of low-carbon footprint feed and healthy snack bars with excellent sensory acceptance.
🌿 #MACROALGAE explored the use of native Andalusian macroalgae to produce natural agricultural bio-inputs. The project validated the effectiveness of these extracts under real field conditions, with biostimulant and/or biocidal effects, laying the groundwork for industrial scaling and boosting the local coastal economy.
🍅 #TOMAGROUP focused on valorizing discarded tomatoes from the fruit and vegetable industry to create effective biostimulants for both foliar and root application. The formulations developed showed significant improvements in plant growth, stress resistance, and fruit quality.
📣 Each of these projects included a comprehensive communication and dissemination plan, featuring visual materials, explanatory videos, media outreach, and informative sessions—ensuring effective knowledge transfer to key players in the agri-food sector.
🌱 At CIDAF, we celebrate the success of these initiatives and thank all partners involved for their collaboration. We remain committed to driving innovation that delivers real impact in the territory through sustainability-focused solutions.
If you’d like to learn more about any of these projects, we invite you to consult and download their technical guides, where you’ll find detailed information on objectives, methodologies, results, and future applications:
Final Guide – BIOREVALEAF Project (PDF)
Final Guide – CHERRY4FOOD Project (PDF)