Innovative biotechnological applications of raw beet juice for a sustainable bioIndustry

This review critically examines the Beta vulgaris L. juice (designated as raw beet juice, or rBJ) applications as a sustainable substrate for microbial bioprocesses, enabling the production of bioethanol, lactic acid, limonene, linalool, ethylene and other value-added metabolites. Its role in bioremediation is also explored, emphasizing its phytochemical-mediated chelation capacity for the remediation of heavy metal contamination and environmental pollutants. In addition, the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical significance of beet juice is highlighted through its antioxidative, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory properties, positioning it as a cornerstone for functional food innovations and therapeutic applications. The vivid betalain pigments extracted using advanced enzyme-assisted and membrane-based techniques further present a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes in food technology, cosmetics, and biomedical applications. This review also underscores the integration of rBJ into circular economy frameworks, where agricultural residues are repurposed to produce bio-based materials, promoting waste valorization and environmental sustainability. Despite its promising potential, a more detailed exploration of compositional diversity, conversion efficiency, and bioactive compound stability is warranted to fully elucidate rBJ’s functional and industrial applications. However, challenges like scalability, economic feasibility, and the bioactive components stability in complex formulations persist.