The North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA), a non-profit group that promotes the health, versatility, and authenticity of all types of olive oil for North American consumers, has opened registration for its second annual Olive Oil Conference. The conference is co-hosted by the NAOOA and International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Savantes, a program intended to develop participants’ tasting skills, knowledge and experience through training courses and events.

The Olive Oil Conference, set to take place July 18 through July 20 at the Westin O’Hare in Rosemont, Illinois, brings together olive oil marketers, distributors and brands, as well as experts in diet, cooking, and trade. Beyond that, the conference also attracts foodies, health advocates and culinary enthusiasts looking to expand and diversify their knowledge on the subject. The conference boasts three days of presentations, lively discussions and tasty cooking demonstrations, as well as offers attendees the opportunity to engage in topical sessions and olive oil tastings, group workshops. and brainstorms.

Many topics will be discussed at the conference, such as how to use new media to promote olive oil, the future uses of olive oil, and megatrends within the olive oil industry. Several industry leaders will speak to these topics and offer educational information to consumers, including the benefits offered by olive oil and how it can be used. Key speakers at the event include:

• Top Chef Master Suvir Saran, Chairman of Asian Culinary Studies for the Culinary Institute of America
• Italian Culinary Chef Hayley Stevens Miller, former Chef/Instructor at the International Culinary Center
• Eryn Balch, Executive Vice President of the NAOOA

As part of the conference, the NAOOA and International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Savantes are also hosting a Taster’s Challenge, where attendees test their palate and ability to assess different oils, and have the ultimate opportunity to become the Champion Taster of North America. Before the Olive Oil Conference, Savantes will host another tasting event in New York City from June 22 through June 24.

Established in 1989, the North American Olive Oil Association is a trade association of marketers, packagers, and importers of olive oil in the U.S., Canada, and their respective suppliers abroad. The association strives to foster a better understanding of olive oil and its taste, versatility, and health benefits.