Introducing the experts and contact details of the LAB Food team

Sami Luste

Development Manager Sami holds a Doctorate in Environmental Sciences and has extensive experience in bio-circular economy research, RDI activities, regional development, and cooperation with companies. Sami is responsible for the overall LAB Food entity.

sami.luste(at)lab.fi
+358 44 708 5008

Nino Valkonen

Laboratory Manager Nino holds a Master of Science degree with a major in Chemistry. Nino has extensive experience in quality assurance, processing, and product development within the food sector. Nino’s particular areas of expertise include the analysis of raw materials, semi-finished products, and finished products. In addition, Nino has strong competence in brewery products, such as beer and soft drinks.

nino.valkonen(at)lab.fi
+358 50 567 5767

Soila Saavala (Currently on maternity leave)

Laboratory Manager Soila holds a Master of Science degree in Bio and Food Engineering and has experience in product development and quality management roles within the food industry. Soila also has strong expertise in the production of liquid food products, ranging from soft drinks to oat-based drinks and dessert sauces. Soila is responsible for oat drink development projects at LAB.

soila.saavala(at)lab.fi
+358 50 598 1084

Katariina Niklander

Laboratory Engineer Katariina holds a Master’s degree in Food Sciences as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Bio and Food Engineering. Katariina has several years of experience in production, product development, and research roles within the food industry, as well as at the Department of Grain Technology at the University of Helsinki. Katariina’s particular areas of expertise include the development of grain- and plant–based products, pilot-scale baking, and sensory evaluation methods.

katariina.niklander(at)lab.fi 
+358 50 911 7529

Jarkko Nikulin

Product Manager Jarkko holds a Master of Science (Technology) degree in Bioprocess Engineering and has built a research career focused on beer at VTT’s Brewing Laboratory. Jarkko has strong expertise in, among other areas, Finnish wild yeasts, beer fermentation processes, and non-alcoholic beers. In addition to managing the sales of Food Pilot Plant services, Jarkko is responsible for development projects related to beers, soft drinks, and distillates.

jarkko.nikulin(at)lab.fi
+358 50 598 7570

Saara Sammalisto

Researcher Saara completed a Doctorate in Food Sciences at the University of Helsinki in March 2024. As a grain technologist, Saara focused in their doctoral research on the quality factors of 100% oat baking, the use of hydrocolloids, and the optimization of oat milling processes. Oats are Saara’s core area of expertise, but Saara has also worked extensively with other grains. Saara is responsible for the development and research of oat- and bakery-based products, as well as projects related to the texture analyzer.

saara.sammalisto(at)lab.fi
+358 50 520 4910

Pasi Raja

RDI Specialist Pasi has nearly two decades of work experience in the food industry. In addition to extensive professional experience, Pasi holds qualifications as a Food Technician, a Master’s degree in Food Sciences, and a Brewmaster. Pasi’s expertise focuses particularly on food processing and product development.

pasi.raja(at)lab.fi
+358 50 560 5003

Katja Pethman

RDI Specialist Katja is a versatile expert in food systems. Extensive work experience in non-governmental organizations and public authorities has provided Katja with broad expertise in food exports, communications, and various projects promoting food chain development, sustainability, and well-being. Katja holds a Master’s degree in Food Sciences with a major in Nutrition Science. Katja is primarily responsible for projects related to food exports and regional development.

katja.pethman(at)lab.fi
+358 50 401 8091

Antti Knaapila

Principal Lecturer Antti holds a Doctorate in Food Sciences and is an Adjunct Professor in Sensory Science. With a background as a researcher, Antti’s research themes have included perception, the sensory quality of foods, and consumer attitudes, preferences, and choices. Antti is responsible for the curriculum of the Degree Programme in Biomaterials and Food Technology (Engineering), teaches, and actively participates in RDI projects.

antti.knaapila(at)lab.fi
+358 50 571 7242

Tuula Penate Medina

Tuula has an international research career as a biochemist, with a particular specialization in lipids. Tuula works as a Lecturer in the Degree Programme in Biomaterials and Food Technology at LAB and is also actively involved in operations at the Food Pilot Plant. In addition, Tuula contributes to the development of a European network of plant-based food developers and is responsible for student exchange activities within the degree programme.

tuula.penate.medina(at)lab.fi
+358 50 441 3234