Production of solid soap using pineapple peel and banana peel for sustainable utilization of agricultural waste.

Abstract

Soap plays a diverse role in our daily lives, from personal hygiene to cleaning. Its production process is called saponification, it varies depending on its intended use and can be in the form of bar or liquid. Soap acts as an anionic surfactant and becomes an all-purpose cleaner when combined with water. Agricultural commodities, especially fruits and vegetables, are rich in nutrients, but generate significant waste. The innovative practice of soapmaking utilizing fruit peels as waste presents a promising solution. This approach not only minimizes waste, but also harnesses the beneficial properties of these peels. According to that perspective, making solid soap from pineapple and banana peels offers a sustainable solution to traditional agricultural waste management. These peels are rich in potassium, saponins and antioxidants, that enhance the soap performance, and contribute to resource recovery, and waste reduction. A feasibility study was conducted to assess the use of pineapple and banana peels as the active ingredients for soap production to utilization of agricultural waste as a source of raw materials to produce valuable products. To the test procedure, one sample by each soap type with three replicates were used to take the final values. Laboratory test results confirmed that the pH (S1 - 9.33, S2 - 9.22) of the soap products within the standard level (8 - 10), while moisture content (S1 - 14.967%, S2 - 15.167%) slightly exceeded the standard level (10–14%). TFM (Total Fatty Matter) values of both samples are denoted as 66%, classifying them as grade 03 soap, with a slight increase (2.14%) in Free Alkali content (2.03 – 2.04 %). Sensory evaluation revealed no significant preference between the two soap samples overall. Gender-based distinctions emerged, with women favoring sample No. 02 while men preferred sample No. 01, emphasizing attributes such as color, scent, texture, and foam quality. By considering the availability, feasibility, and evaluation results, it is evident that, this environmentally friendly approach is not only minimizing the discarding of valuable agricultural waste but also meet the growing demand for eco-friendly personal care products.