About

Profile: Ir. Wouter de Heij

Ir. Wouter de Heij is a prominent Dutch engineer and entrepreneur specializing in chemical technology and food processing. He earned his degree in chemical engineering from Delft University of Technology, where he laid the foundation for a career focused on process optimization and innovation. He began his professional journey in academia and the chemical industry, gaining extensive experience before joining the renowned research institute ATO-DLO (now part of Wageningen UR) in 1998. At ATO-DLO, he established himself as a leading expert in food technology, with a particular focus on minimal food processing.

In 2006, Wouter de Heij co-founded TOP b.v., an innovative technology company based in Wageningen, recognized globally for its groundbreaking food processing technologies. Under his leadership as CEO, TOP b.v. introduced several sustainable and efficient methods, such as Pulsed Electric Field (PEF), Radio Frequency (RF), and Advanced Modified Atmosphere Packaging (AMAP). These technologies have revolutionized the food industry by extending the shelf life of products without relying on harmful additives or traditional intensive heat treatments. His approach emphasizes sustainability, food safety, and minimizing food waste.

Beyond his role at TOP b.v., De Heij also became partner and investment manager of Blue Ocean XLerator (BOX nv), a private incubator supporting start-ups and scale-ups focused on innovative and sustainable technologies. Based in Wageningen, BOX nv plays a pivotal role in guiding young entrepreneurs through the critical stages of development, from conceptualization to market entry. De Heij has been instrumental in bridging the so-called “valley of death,” a challenging phase in securing funding for technological start-ups. He collaborates with organizations like Mibiton, which provides essential facilities and investment opportunities for emerging companies.

Wouter de Heij is also an active writer and speaker. He regularly publishes articles on platforms like Foodlog.nl, his own blog Food4Innovations, and other media outlets, sharing his insights on topics such as food technology, sustainability, and environmental challenges like nitrogen emissions. His contributions are clear and nuanced, often aiming to connect scientific knowledge with practical applications. Combining technical depth with a broad societal perspective, he is a sought-after commentator on both national and international stages.

In addition to his professional activities, De Heij is deeply involved in research and policy development on issues such as nitrogen reduction, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. He collaborates with foundations and think tanks to translate scientific insights into actionable solutions for policymakers and businesses. For example, through his work with the Stichting Onderzoek voor het Platteland (Foundation for Rural Research), he is dedicated to advancing fundamental and applied research into environmental challenges and rural livability.

Ir. Wouter de Heij is widely praised for his innovative mindset, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to bridge diverse disciplines. His work has had a lasting impact on the food industry and the sustainability of Dutch agriculture. His mission extends beyond developing better technologies to fostering a deeper understanding of the role that technology and science play in transitioning to a more sustainable society. This makes him a leading figure in both the technical and societal discussions surrounding food and the environment.