K. POLÁKOVÁ: Uncovering Innovative Food Industry Solutions with Coffee Husks
15.01.2025
Engineer Katarína Poláková from the Institute of Food Science at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Science, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, has been named the Student Personality of Slovakia for the academic year 2023/2024 in the category of Agriculture, Forestry, and Wood Industry.
The award committee recognized her outstanding contributions to food research and development, as well as her active involvement in the academic community. Poláková’s research focuses on coffee husks as a promising source of bioactive compounds, which can be utilized in the creation of innovative food products.
Her work includes the characterization of biologically active substances in coffee husks, evaluating their chemical and microbiological properties, and developing new food products by incorporating these husks—such as in biscuit recipes. This research aligns with the principles of circular economy, aiming to reduce waste while enhancing the nutritional and sensory value of food.
"The main motivation behind my scientific and research work is the need to address specific issues, such as waste management, and to find innovative solutions for the food industry. I also aim to strengthen the link between research and practical applications in Slovakia," said K. Poláková.
