Sydney, Australia October 20th: In recent days, a delegation from the International Olive Council arrived in Sydney, consisting of Maria Juarez, Head of Promotion and Economic Affairs, Dr Imene Trabelsi Trigui, Head of Promotion, and Dr. Wenceslao Moreda, Principal Scientist and IOC expert.
Their visit aimed to present and showcase a series of hosting events in Sydney by featuring a two-day technical tasting workshop and an engaging networking cocktail event.
The primary focus of these events is twofold. The workshop aimed to establish a collaborative relationship between Australian growers and producers and the International Olive Council. Meanwhile, the networking cocktail event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, media representatives, chefs, and producers for a culminating networking event. The highlight of the evening was the presence of the new Ambassador, Mark Olive, who delighted attendees with a special menu incorporating Australian Indigenous ingredients like saltbush, kangaroo, bush tomato and native peppers which were beautifully presented and paired with various styles of Australian Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
“Promoting sustainability in olive oil production is vital in addressing climate change. We encourage producers to adopt sustainable practices, which not only mitigate environmental issues but also manage production costs effectively. Australia’s closer collaboration with the IOC is a step toward a healthier, sustainable future. We aim to raise awareness about the benefits of olive oil and sustainable practices, ensuring a better, healthier food consumption.” – Dr. Imene Trabelsi, Head of Promotions, International Olive Council
The two-day technical workshop was expertly presented by Dr Wenceslao Moreda, an IOC expert and chairman of eWG of the Codex Committee on Fats and Oils (CCFO) and is also a distinguished figure from the Spanish National Research Council with a prolific track record of over 75 research publications dating back before 1995. The first day of the workshop delved into sensory evaluation, encompassing both the physical and psychological aspects of the organoleptic process highlighting correct conditions of production, all while adhering to the stringent standards set by the International Olive Council. The discussions on these standards shed light on the reasons behind their existence and why certain variances do exist to be an overarching umbrella global standard.
On the second day, the workshop shifted its focus to the quality and purity of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, exploring internal quality control measures & criteria. The day concluded with an insightful overview of the health parameters related to olive oil, with nutritionists in attendance. The array of technical information provided was truly insightful for all participants, offering a comprehensive perspective on the journey from production to the final product from an organoleptic standpoint. The IOC mentioned the set up of a new website to facilitate information about the array of health benefits.
The International Olive Council remains an unwavering force in shaping the olive oil sector worldwide, setting standards and fostering international collaboration that is integral to the industry’s growth. As the curtain falls on these unforgettable events, they leave behind a lingering sense of unity, progress, and shared devotion to the cherished ‘liquid gold’—extra virgin olive oil.
These events did more than just celebrate the versatility and splendor of olive products; they emphasised the importance of unity and knowledge-sharing within the olive industry.
ABOUT IOC
The International Olive Council serves as an intergovernmental organisation that establishes the regulatory framework for the entire global olive oil sector. While Australia is not an official member of the IOC, its support extends to emerging industries by aiding in the establishment and application of international standards, the cooperation and support exhibited at these gatherings demonstrated the global impact and significance of the IOC’s work.
Additionally, the IOC considers the diverse growing conditions that may lead to parameter variances outside official guidelines that may arise in certain countries. It’s important to note that the IOC has the only legally binding standard for olive oil worldwide, making its role integral to the industry from a legislative perspective. Furthermore, the Australian Olive Oil Association (AOOA) is recognised for its collaborative efforts with the International Olive Council, emphasising the importance of ongoing international cooperation within the olive oil sector.
IOC MEMBERSHIP PROCESS
The International Olive Council (IOC) is an international, intergovernmental organisation with strict criteria for membership. It exclusively welcomes the participation of governments representing states or international organisations that have responsibilities related to the negotiation, conclusion, and application of international agreements, particularly those concerning commodity agreements. When a country expresses its interest in becoming an IOC Member, its government initiates the process by submitting an application to the Council of Members. Typically, this application is channeled through the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or another relevant ministry, or its Embassy in Spain. The Council of Members then thoroughly reviews the application and establishes the terms and conditions for the country’s accession, including determining the number of participation shares in the overall IOC budget and setting a specific time frame for the country to submit its instrument of accession to the Secretary-General of the United Nations in New York, who serves as the depositary of the Agreement. Upon the successful deposition of this instrument, the country officially becomes an IOC Member. It’s crucial to note that private companies and individuals do not have the opportunity to join the IOC. Additionally, Member countries of the European Union are automatically considered part of the IOC without needing a separate application from the country itself.
In Australia, it is essential for Australian associations, the Australian government, and the International Olive Council to collaborate closely to bring Australia into closer alignment with the IOC. It is crucial for the Australian industry to take the lead in facilitating internal discussions on this matter.
IOC NEW HEALTH WEBSITE
See the new website setup as an information reference site about olive oil and health by the International Olive Council
Read more: Olive Oil and Health
IOC STANDARDS, METHODS AND GUIDELINES
See the latest information for trade standards applying to olive oil and table olives, testing methods, organoleptic assessment, quality managment and more
Read more: Standards, Methods and Guidelines