Applications open for the inaugural Global Culinary Medicine Award 2026
PAN International’s new global award celebrates chefs and culinary innovators who are redefining the relationship between food, nutrition and human health.
Established and presented by PAN International, the Award celebrates the important role of chefs in translating knowledge about food and nutrition into inspiring, culturally meaningful and enjoyable food experiences. It reflects a growing recognition that food is not only a source of pleasure and connection, but also an important tool in supporting wellbeing and prevention.
“Food has always been more than nourishment. It connects us to culture, community and wellbeing,” said Kerstin Plehwe, President and CEO of PAN International. “With the Global Culinary Medicine Award, PAN International is recognising the chefs and culinary innovators who are helping to redefine the relationship between food and health. Their creativity and expertise are essential in translating nutrition knowledge into meaningful food experiences.”
The inaugural award ceremony will take place at the Soil to Soul Symposium in Zurich, Switzerland, on 29 October 2026, with Soil to Soul serving as the official Event Partner. The ceremony will bring together leaders from the culinary, healthcare and nutrition communities to celebrate innovation and excellence in food culture.
The Award is also supported by the Natural Food Guide, Soil to Soul’s digital platform for discovering restaurants, producers, farmers, shops and food initiatives connected to more transparent, sustainable and responsible food systems.
Chefs, culinary professionals, culinary schools and food innovators from around the world are invited to submit recipes demonstrating excellence across culinary quality, nutrition, evidence-informed health impact, sustainability and accessibility.
The overall winner will receive the Global Culinary Medicine Award 2026, including a CHF 5,000 prize and international recognition at the award ceremony in Zurich.
Applications for the Global Culinary Medicine Award 2026 are open until 30 September 2026.