Dr. Khaoula Khwaldia, a prominent Tunisian professor at the National Institute of Research and Physicochemical Analysis (INRAP), specializes in food packaging, active and sustainable packaging, edible films and coatings, bioproducts, food preservation and security, valorization of industrial waste streams, and circular economy. With extensive experience in biotechnology and food science, she has made significant contributions to these fields.
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Dr. Khaoula Khwaldia’s contributions to the fields of food science and biotechnology are underscored by her impressive publication record and citation metrics. Her research has been widely recognized and cited, placing her among the top 2% of the most-cited scientists globally in 2021. This distinction highlights the significant impact of her work on the scientific community and the practical applications of her research in food packaging and sustainability.
Dr. Khwaldia’s research has been published in numerous high-impact journals, reflecting the quality and relevance of her work. Her studies on innovative food packaging solutions, active and sustainable packaging, edible films and coatings, and the valorization of industrial waste streams have garnered significant attention and citation from peers. These publications not only advance academic knowledge but also provide practical solutions for industry challenges, particularly in the areas of food preservation and security.
Education
She holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology and Food Science from INPL (ENSAIA), France (2001-2004), a Master in Biotechnology and Food Science from the same institution (2000-2001), an Engineer diploma in Food Science and Engineering from INAT, Tunisia (1995-2000), and Habilitation Universitaire (Tenure) in Biology from the University of Tunis El Manar (2014).
Research Focus
Dr. Khwaldia’s research is centered on food packaging innovations, active and sustainable packaging solutions, the development of edible films and coatings, bioproducts, enhancing food preservation and security, and promoting the valorization of industrial waste streams within the circular economy framework.
Professional Journey
Dr. Khwaldia has progressed through various academic roles at INRAP, from Assistant (2004-2008) to Assistant Professor (2008-2014), Associate Professor (2015-2019), and currently Professor since 2020. Her early career included a lecturer position at the Institut National Polytechnique de Lorraine, France (2001-2003).
Honors & Awards
She has been recognized among the top 2% most-cited scientists worldwide in 2021 and won the third prize for the best proposal at the 2016 “Best Innovative Projects in Biotechnology of Health and Welfare” competition in Hammamet, Tunisia.
Publications Noted & Contributions
- By-products of dates, cherries, plums, and artichokes: A source of valuable bioactive compounds
- Authors: ARS Mateus, A Pena, R Sendón, C Almeida, GA Nieto, K Khwaldia, …
- Journal: Trends in Food Science & Technology
- Volume: 131
- Pages: 220-243
- Cited by: 40
- Year: 2023
- Natural antimicrobials in food safety and quality
- Authors: M Rai, M Chikindas
- Journal: CABI
- Volume:
- Pages:
- Cited by: 35
- Year: 2011
- Enhancement of the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of cactus mucilage films by blending with polyvinyl alcohol
- Authors: R Gheribi, MA Gharbi, M El Ouni, K Khwaldia
- Journal: Food Packaging and Shelf Life
- Volume: 22
- Article: 100386
- Cited by: 34
- Year: 2019
- Olive byproducts and their bioactive compounds as a valuable source for food packaging applications
- Authors: K Khwaldia, N Attour, J Matthes, L Beck, M Schmid
- Journal: Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety
- Volume: 21 (2)
- Pages: 1218-1253
- Cited by: 33
- Year: 2022
- Citrus by-products: Valuable source of bioactive compounds for food applications
- Authors: MA Andrade, CH Barbosa, MA Shah, N Ahmad, F Vilarinho, K Khwaldia, …
- Journal: Antioxidants
- Volume: 12 (1)
- Article: 38
- Cited by: 31
- Year: 2022
- Development of active films utilizing antioxidant compounds obtained from tomato and lemon by-products for use in food packaging
- Authors: S Marino-Cortegoso, M Stanzione, MA Andrade, C Restuccia, …
- Journal: Food Control
- Volume: 140
- Article: 109128
- Cited by: 31
- Year: 2022
Her research projects span from 2008 to the present, involving the development of innovative packaging solutions, valorization of food by-products, and sustainable materials for food preservation. Notable projects include the ERA-NET ARIMNet2 project (2017-2020), the TUNGER 2+2 Program (2019-2021), and the PRIMA ValICET project (2021-2023).
Collaborations and Projects
Dr. Khwaldia has led and participated in numerous national and international projects, collaborating with research and government organizations across Tunisia, France, Egypt, Italy, Portugal, Germany, and Spain. Her projects often focus on the development of bio-based packaging materials, the valorization of food and agricultural waste, and the application of emerging technologies within the circular economy.