Zalan Zsolt, a researcher at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, has been awarded the 2025 Chongqing Science and Technology Cooperation Award for his contributions to scientific collaboration between Hungary and China over the past two decades, particularly in the field of food science.
Since 2004, Zalan has played a pivotal role in research initiatives linking the two countries. His partnership with Southwest University has contributed to significant advancements in areas such as lactic acid bacteria, fermentation mechanisms, novel probiotics, bioremediation of mycotoxins, and methods for the green preservation of fruits and vegetables, according to Southwest University.
Among his notable achievements is the establishment of the China-Hungary Microbial Strain Library, which has facilitated the identification of several high-functioning microbial strains. Additionally, Zalan is credited with launching the first China-Hungary food science cooperation research center, which includes facilities like the China-Hungary Fruit Wine and Brandy Research Laboratory located in Chongqing.
Currently, Zalan serves on the academic committee for the China-Hungary Belt and Road Joint Laboratory on Food Science. This laboratory, which received official approval for construction in October 2024, is part of the fourth cohort of China’s Belt and Road Joint Laboratories and is a collaboration between Southwest University and the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Zalan Zsolt’s ongoing efforts continue to strengthen the scientific ties between Hungary and China, fostering research that can benefit both nations in the realm of food science.
