Dr Gerold August Häberli, former principal of the Swiss School of Milling (SMS), passed away on 16 December 2025 at the age of 81. During his tenure, Häberli oversaw the development of SMS into a leading institution for milling education, training generations of millers who have contributed to the global grain industry.
Häberli, a food technology graduate from ETH Zurich, worked in various mill laboratories and research centres in Switzerland and internationally. He also served as a grain expert for organisations including the United Nations, bringing his technical expertise to a global stage.
At SMS, Häberli collaborated on significant industry research, notably with Harald Perten and laboratory manager Edgar Keller on high-altitude testing of the falling number apparatus at the Säntis mountain, contributing to improved flour testing standards.
Colleagues note Häberli’s combination of technical knowledge and leadership made him an influential figure in milling education. Even after retiring, he remained engaged in mentoring students and promoting advances in grain science.
The Swiss Milling School and the wider milling community recognise Häberli’s long-standing contributions to education, research and industry development.
