MRC Human Nutrition Research Unit, Cambridge

The lifelong dedication and work of Dr Elsie Widdowson (1906 - 2000), a pioneer in nutrition science, was honoured by a RSC Chemical Landmark award ceremony held at the Human Nutrition Research Unit (HNR) Cambridge on 1 December 2009.   The award was presented during RSC's Food Year 2009, which had highlighted the importance of chemistry in food and nutrition through a variety of organised events and activities.

Dr Elsie Widdowson, played an important role in the development of Britain's wartime food rationing and with her research partner, Professor Robert A McCance, had revolutionised worldwide nutritional standards and tables.  McCance and Widdowson had a remarkable relationship, working for 60 years since 1933.  Their joint publication, "The Composition of Food", now in its sixth edition, is still the standard reference for chemical data on food today. 

During her 93 years, Dr Widdowson was honoured many times, most notably with a CBE for services to science, and she was made a Companion of Honour in 1993.

Elsie Widdowson spent most of her working life in Cambridge, so it was very fitting that the ceremony took place at the Elsie Widdowson Laboratory named after her at MRC HNR in Fulbourn.  Although she was present at the cutting of the first sod in 1999, the building was opened in 2001, sadly a year after she had passed away. 

Dr Prentice gave an in depth account of Dr Widdowson's life to an audience of retired academics and scientists who had worked and associated with Dr Widdowson during her long life.  They were joined by staff at HNR to celebrate the presentation of the plaque which was installed above the entrance to the building before the guests had departed.