Seven journalists recognised for advancing public dialogue on sustainable and healthy diets through impactful reporting and storytelling.
The Horizon Europe-funded SWITCH Project is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 SWITCH Journalism Award, recognising exceptional journalism that advances public understanding of sustainable and healthy diets and their role in Europe’s food systems transformation.
Selected from submissions across the project’s six Food Hubs and the international English-language category, this year’s seven winners have demonstrated outstanding excellence in communicating the environmental, social, cultural, and health dimensions of food through compelling journalism that informs, inspires, and drives change.
As Europe accelerates its transition toward healthier and more resilient food systems, the role of journalism has never been more critical. Through their reporting, these journalists help translate scientific knowledge into public understanding, connecting research, policy, and lived experience in ways that empower citizens and communities to engage with food transformation.
Meet the 2026 Winners
This year’s awardees represent a broad range of expertise, from investigative reporting and science communication to multimedia storytelling and systemic food advocacy.
Arnaud Gauthier – French language category
Stina Berge – English language category
Eric Berdaguer – German language category
Anna Lindelöw Mannheimer – Swedish language category
Patricia Biosca – Spanish language category
Federica Rossi – Italian language category
Verdiana Fronza – Italian language category
These seven winners represent SWITCH’s official Food Hubs, while one has been selected in the international English-language category.
About the SWITCH Journalism Award
Launched to amplify informed public conversation around food systems transformation, the SWITCH Journalism Award celebrates reporting that raises awareness of:
- Sustainable and healthy diets
- The environmental impact of food systems
- Social and cultural dimensions of food
- Food literacy and citizen engagement
- Innovative solutions for Europe’s food transition
Entries were evaluated through a rigorous multi-stage process. The highest-scoring submissions in each language category were shortlisted and presented for public voting through the SWITCH platform.
A Press Tour at Venice Climate Week 2026
The winners will participate in a dedicated SWITCH Press Tour during Venice Climate Week 2026, taking place in Venice, Italy, from 4–6 June 2026.
Venice Climate Week is an international multistakeholder forum focused on climate leadership, strategic action, innovation, and systemic solutions for a fair and regenerative ecological transition.
As part of this immersive experience, awardees will take part in:
- Participation in food systems transformation dialogues shaping Europe’s regenerative future
- Networking opportunities with policymakers, researchers, innovators, and sustainability leaders
- Venice Lagoon Navigation – “On-Nature” Field Session
This unique gathering will allow journalists to engage directly with experts and changemakers working at the forefront of sustainable food systems innovation.