The most innovative and sustainable solution for the juice company to utilize apple pomace would be D. Develop a process to extract valuable chemicals for use in food products.
This option allows the company to transform what would otherwise be waste into high-value products, potentially generating revenue while also promoting sustainability. By extracting valuable compounds such as pectin, polyphenols, or dietary fiber, the company can create ingredients for food products, thereby reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also aligns with growing consumer demand for sustainable and functional foods.
While the other options (A, B, and C) are beneficial in their own rights (providing fertilizer, animal feed, or compost), they do not maximize the value of the pomace or minimize waste as effectively as option D.