Research trends on mango by-products: a literature review with bibliometric analysis

Large quantities of mango peel and seed are generated worldwide, representing up to 60% of the total weight of the fruit. However, despite being undervalued, these by-products have a high nutritional and bioactive potential of interest for multiple applications. This paper evaluated for the first time the trend on research approaches for the use of mango peel and seed. For this purpose, a mixed methodology based on a literature review and bibliometric analysis with VOSviewer was used. Most of the studies on this topic are carried out by researchers from institutions in India, Mexico and Brazil, due to the high level of mango production in these countries. In addition, due to the importance of the subject, these studies are published in journals with high impact. According to the keyword co-occurrence analysis, the studies focus on the bioactive compounds of mango peel and seed, mainly phenolic compounds and carotenoids, in addition to their antioxidant activity, suitable for combating various diseases. Taking advantage of these properties, it was determined that these by-products (as powder or extract) are generally used as an ingredient in the elaboration of functional foods, showing promising results. Finally, this review also detailed some current challenges and future trends in the topic, which are of crucial importance to give the deserved valorization to mango peel and seed.