Chef Sanjeev Kapoor Honoured as Top Agri-Food Pioneer by World Food Prize Foundation

Global recognition for Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s contribution to sustainable food and nutrition

Padma Shri awardee, celebrated chef, author, philanthropist, and entrepreneur Sanjeev Kapoor has been honoured as a Top Agri-Food Pioneer by the World Food Prize Foundation at a ceremony held in Des Moines, Iowa, a global centre for discussions on food security and sustainable agriculture.

The prestigious recognition celebrates Kapoor’s transformative contribution to improving the global food ecosystem by promoting healthy and sustainable eating, supporting Indian agriculture, and encouraging the use of local, nutrient-rich ingredients.

Through partnerships with organisations such as HarvestPlus Solutions, Kapoor has championed initiatives that blend nutrition literacy with innovative food solutions, especially in school meal programmes. His work empowers children, families, and farmers to make food choices that are both nourishing and sustainable.

These programmes, guided by Kapoor, have already served millions of nutritious meals and engaged thousands of children, educators, and farmers across India. By combining traditional flavours with nutrient-rich local ingredients, they make healthy eating accessible, relatable, and enjoyable.

Kapoor has long been a strong advocate of the “farm to finger” philosophy, which celebrates India’s tradition of eating with hands, a practice that makes the experience of food both personal and cultural. His efforts have consistently bridged the gap between farmers, producers, and consumers, inspiring communities to embrace nutritious and sustainable food practices.

Speaking about the honour, Kapoor said, “It is a privilege to be recognised by the World Food Prize Foundation among global pioneers working to make food more sustainable and equitable. India’s agri-food story is a mix of tradition and innovation, and I am proud to represent our farmers, communities, and culinary heritage on this platform. Through carefully designed initiatives and associations with organisations dedicated to nutrition, we can ensure that wholesome food reaches young children and that the next generation grows up healthier and more informed.”

The award was presented during the Borlaug Dialogue Week, hosted annually by the World Food Prize Foundation, which gathers global leaders, scientists, policymakers, and innovators to deliberate on key issues surrounding food security, climate resilience, and nutrition.

This international recognition further cements Kapoor’s role as a humanitarian and culinary ambassador dedicated to creating a more inclusive and sustainable food future, proving that his influence extends far beyond the kitchen.