Shrimp shell has a substance, chitosan, which can have several applications, from fighting infections, slimming, and reducing fat levels, in particular cholesterol, to blood clotting, rapid healing, production of contact lenses and even creating artificial skin. Despite all these applications, it is necessary to be cautious with people allergic to shellfish.
Chitosan is commercially produced in India, Poland, Australia and Norway. To produce 1 kilo of chitosan it takes 6.3 kilos of acid, 1.8 kilos of a strong base and 1.4 tons of water. The cost per kilo is approximately 600 euros. In Portugal there are several research groups, including the CBQF, which are developing interesting applications for this natural product that is normally discarded.

Note: This text is part of an informative section authored by researchers from the CBQF and does not necessarily represent the opinion of the institution.