The 2026 World Food Prize was awarded to Dr. Huub Lelieveld for his long-term dedication to establishing standards that prevent diseases transmitted through food. Dr. Lelieveld, a Dutch food scientist, promoted the standardization of technologies such as food irradiation and non‑destructive testing—approaches that have prevented millions of illnesses each year, particularly among children, where infections impair nutrient absorption, cause stunting, and exacerbate “hidden hunger” (micronutrient deficiencies).
Lelieveld founded the Global Harmonization Initiative (GHI) in 2004 as a volunteer-led network of more than 1,600 experts from 113 countries to promote science-based standards related to mycotoxins and microbiologically affected food. These standards have reduced unnecessary destruction of safe food at borders and throughout supply chains, increasing the volume of food available globally. GHI’s work has influenced legislation—such as Kenya’s 2023 requirement for certified food safety professionals—and has contributed to the creation of an international alert system for rapid threat response across more than 100 countries.
Lelieveld stated, “My philosophy was: You should not compete on food safety,” and “The Global Harmonization Initiative… strives not only to reach scientific consensus but also to ensure that findings are accessible to everyone.”
He also worked on Safe Cassava and Safe Water projects in sub‑Saharan Africa to combat toxin-related neurological diseases in children and to improve access to clean water, strengthening nutrition in regions where cassava is a staple. His efforts included training more than 4,000 food professionals and supporting “Safe Food Clubs” in schools to teach safe handling practices. He additionally contributed to atmospheric water generation pilots in eight countries to expand access to safe drinking water.
Further information:
https://www.kcci.com/article/scientist-huub-lelieveld-named-2026-world-food-prize-laureate/70848476
https://www.cfr.org/event/2026-world-food-prize-laureate-announcement-and-discussion
