Current utilization technologies and products of antibiotic fermentation residues: A review

Antibiotic Fermentation Residues (AFR), a significant byproduct of antibiotic production through fermentation, contains considerable amounts of antibiotic residues and organic materials, presenting both environmental risks and resource recovery opportunities. Improper disposal of AFR can lead to severe environmental and public health concerns, including soil and water contamination, and the spread of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). This review comprehensively evaluates advanced AFR treatment technologies through bibliometric analysis, examining global research trends and identifying main technologies for converting AFR into high-value products. The technologies are categorized based on their products: biofuels (solid, gaseous, and liquid) and functional products (carbon fertilizer, activated carbon, platform molecular compounds). Various treatment methods, including pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion (AD), hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL), gasification, and composting, are assessed for their conversion efficiency, energy requirements, environmental impacts, and economic viability. While biofuel production offers significant benefits, the processes are often energy-intensive and require precise control to minimize environmental impacts. Similarly, the conversion into functional products demands rigorous management to ensure product consistency and safety, particularly concerning antibiotic residues and ARGs. This study provides guidance and insights for the clean and efficient utilization of AFR.