The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) is the largest university in Greece. It comprises ten Faculties, including 40 Schools and one single-School Faculty. More than 88,000 students are enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, while over 3,900 are pursuing doctoral studies. AUTh is a comprehensive academic institution covering a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines, ranging from natural and technological sciences to health sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities.

The AUTh research team participating in this project brings together complementary expertise in food microbiology and food chemistry, with extensive experience in the application of microorganisms and bioactive compounds to improve food safety and quality. The team has a strong background in microbial risk assessment, microbial interactions, predictive microbiology, valorization of agro-industrial by-products, and innovative green extraction technologies. Its research activities focus on the formulation, optimization, and validation of novel microbial cultures and bioactive compounds, evaluating their efficacy through microbiological, biochemical, toxicological, and molecular approaches.

The group has established expertise in the isolation, characterization, and selection of beneficial microorganisms and bioactive compounds with technological, probiotic, and biological control potential against foodborne pathogens. The team's interdisciplinary research integrates microbiology, molecular biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, and quantitative risk assessment to develop innovative, sustainable, and science-based solutions for the food sector.