Dr. Anna Lartey works with international organizations to influence the world’s nutrition policy
A University of Guelph alumna who has led global nutrition policy through the United Nations credits her time of U of G with setting her on her path to success.
“U of G actually laid the foundation of my interest in nutrition research,” says Dr. Anna Lartey.
Lartey, who graduated with a Master of Science in Human Health and Nutritional Science in 1986, has spent the past four decades building a reputation as a global leader in nutrition education and policy.
“The University came highly recommended because of my area of research,” she explains. “Looking back, it was the best decision I made, choosing the University of Guelph.”
Addressing world hunger and malnutrition
Lartey has been at the forefront of global nutrition projects throughout her career, including serving as director of Nutrition at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Rome and serving as president of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences (IUNS), an international NGO established in 1948 dedicated to the promotion of science nutrition, research and development through international co-operation.
She played a key role in the WHO’s Multicentre Growth Reference Study, establishing global child growth standards adopted by over 125 countries.
In her home country of Ghana, Lartey was part of the research team that conducted a landmark study on iodine deficiency. This work resulted in Ghana’s mandatory salt iodization program. No matter the project, her focus has always stayed on addressing hunger and malnutrition around the world.
U of G has recognized Lartey with the 2026 Alumni of Honour Award, celebrating her as an exceptional graduate exemplifying the University’s spirit and impact. It’s the highest alumni distinction from the University.
“It’s quite an honour,” Lartey says of the award. “To see my work now recognized after many years feels like I’m bringing my research into the limelight.”
U of G training nutrition leaders
Lartey’s work builds on generations of leading nutrition graduates from the HHNS program. The MSc program gives students experiential learning opportunities in nutritional and nutraceutical sciences, focusing on lifestyle, genetics and health. Graduates move on to careers in nutrition, health care, academia and more.
“The strength of our programs lies in their ability to connect cutting-edge science with meaningful real-world impact,” says Dr. Coral Murrant, chair of the Department of Human Health Sciences. “Dr. Anna Lartey stands as a powerful example of how translating scientific evidence into practice can serve society and improve lives.”
U of G also offers Canada’s only one-year master’s program in nutrition through the Master of Applied Nutrition.
Lartey’s research has shaped global nutrition standards, deepened the world’s understanding of maternal and child nutrition while exploring the impact of maternal HIV on infants.
An accomplished scholar, Lartey has authored over 100 articles in peer-reviewed journals. Her contribution to the nutrition field continues through her involvement in international and national boards.
Now working as a professor at the University of Ghana, Lartey acts as a mentor who has created a web of nutrition expertise in students now working in universities around the world.
“I’ve kept in touch with a lot of my students, especially those who have gone into academia,” Lartey says. “When I see their success and how well they’re doing, it gives me a lot of joy.”
Lartey has earned numerous honours over the years, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the IUNS, She also received an honorary Doctor of Science from McGill University.
Throughout her career, she’s relied on the values she learned at U of G.
“I really relate to the Gryphon mindset,” she says. “As a Gryphon, you rise with courage and you move with vision and wisdom.”