Dr. Alexios Vardakas – Innovative food products – Best Researcher Award
GAEA Products SM SA | Greece
Profiles
📍Current Position
Dr. Alexios Vardakas is an accomplished researcher and academic scholar specializing in food technology, with a deep focus on green bioprocesses and sustainable methods for utilizing agri-food by-products. His work is a testament to his dedication to improving food preservation techniques and ensuring sustainable practices within the industry. This detailed exploration of his academic journey, professional achievements, and research contributions will highlight his ongoing efforts in the field and showcase why he is considered one of the most promising experts in food technology.
📝Publication Achievements
Dr. Vardakas has an extensive publication record, contributing significantly to the field of food technology. His research has been featured in various prestigious journals, including the Journal of Balkan Ecology, European Food Research and Technology, and Waste and Biomass Valorization. Some of his notable works include:
“A new process for enzyme-assisted subcritical water extraction of rice husk polyphenols” (2020)
“Optimization of the enzyme-assisted extraction of polyphenols from saffron tepals” (2021)
“Combining Enzymatic and Subcritical Water Treatments for Green Extraction of Polyphenolic Co-pigments from Saffron Tepals” (2024)
🔍Ongoing Research
Dr. Vardakas’ ongoing research revolves around the development of green bioprocesses, particularly focusing on the chemical technologies for utilizing olive processing by-products. His work aims to enhance the sustainability of food production processes, reduce waste, and create new applications for by-products in the food industry. Currently, he serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Patras, Greece, in the Department of Food Science and Technologies. His research explores innovative ways to utilize by-products like rose petals and olive leaves, tapping into their potential for creating bioactive compounds that can be applied in food preservation and processing.
🔬 Research Interests
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Vardakas has earned several accolades and scholarships that highlight his expertise and contributions to the field of food technology. These recognitions have provided him with opportunities to further his research, participate in high-profile conferences, and collaborate with other renowned experts in the field.
🎓Academic Background
Dr. Alexios Vardakas earned his Ph.D. in Food Technologies from the University of Food Technologies, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, completing his thesis on the “Valorization of agri-food industry by-products through polyphenols application in fruit processing” in 2021. His doctoral research focused on sustainable and innovative approaches to processing fruit while leveraging polyphenols from food by-products, which has become a significant part of his ongoing research. Prior to his Ph.D., he pursued an M.Sc. in the Analysis and Control of Food Products at the Technological Education Institute of Western Macedonia, Greece, where he honed his expertise in food safety and quality assurance. Additionally, he holds a B.Sc. in Agricultural Technology from the Technological Education Institute of Mesolonghi, where his foundational knowledge of greenhouse crops and floriculture was established.
🏆Scholarships and Awards
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Vardakas has earned several accolades and scholarships that highlight his expertise and contributions to the field of food technology. These recognitions have provided him with opportunities to further his research, participate in high-profile conferences, and collaborate with other renowned experts in the field.
🧬Bioinformatics
Dr. Vardakas is also actively involved in the application of bioinformatics within his research. His work includes analyzing the complex interactions of polyphenols in food processing and exploring the molecular-level benefits of bioactive compounds derived from by-products.
🌐Professional Associations
He is a reviewer for international scientific journals, including the World Journal of Food Science and Technology and Chemical Papers. His editorial contributions further emphasize his standing as a thought leader in the industry.
📚Training & Workshops
Dr. Vardakas has continuously enhanced his professional skills through participation in various seminars and workshops. He has completed certifications in food defense, organoleptic evaluation of olive oils, and project management, all of which complement his research endeavors. His involvement in training programs underscores his commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in food science and technology.
🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership
Dr. Vardakas has presented his research findings at several international conferences. For example, at the 1st International Applied Scientific Conference in Plovdiv, Bulgaria (2021), he delivered an oral presentation on the role of polyphenols from plant by-products in fruit processing. He was also a guest speaker at the SafeFood4EU Final Conference in 2024, where he shared his insights on sustainable olive production and the challenges and best practices associated with it. These presentations have allowed him to share his expertise with peers and industry professionals.
🧑🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher
As a researcher, Dr. Vardakas has taken on numerous responsibilities, from leading research projects to collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. His role in developing new product innovations for GAEA Product S.M. S.A., specifically in the area of sustainability management, is noteworthy. He has also contributed to the creation of quality assurance systems and helped drive corporate projects focused on environmental and social governance (ESG).
🚀Success Factors
Dr. Vardakas’ success can be attributed to his innovative approach to problem-solving, particularly in developing sustainable technologies for food processing. His research into polyphenols and bioactive compounds has opened new avenues for the valorization of agri-food by-products, making him a pioneer in the field of green food technologies.
🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience
Dr. Vardakas has extensive laboratory experience, having worked on enzyme-assisted extraction techniques and the development of polyphenol-rich food products. His contributions to the literature on green bioprocessing have significantly advanced our understanding of how by-products can be utilized in food technology.
🔍 Conclusion
Dr. Alexios Vardakas is a remarkable scholar whose contributions to food technology, particularly in the sustainable utilization of agri-food by-products, position him as a leader in the field. His academic background, ongoing research, and professional achievements underscore his dedication to innovation and sustainability in food processing. His work not only drives forward scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions for creating a more sustainable future.