BALTIMORE, MD--(Marketwired - Sep 10, 2015) -  Pompeian, Inc., maker of the number one selling extra virgin olive oil in America, announced today that the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS) has named Pompeian's Sensory Panel in Maryland as one of only four accredited tasting panels in the world and the only one in the United States.

Founded in 1909, the AOCS is a standards developer and proficiency testing (PT) program administrator that studies and evaluates the quality and purity of olive oil and recognizes panels proficient in the sensory analysis of olive oil. Recognized panels that meet additional procedural and membership criteria may also apply for AOCS accreditation.

"At Pompeian, quality is our number one priority and we are honored that the Pompeian Sensory Panel is recognized by the American Oil Chemists' Society," said David Bensadoun, Pompeian, Inc. Chief Executive Officer. "We will continue providing our customers with great tasting olive oil that exceeds the highest international standards. Pompeian is the leader and innovator in the industry, providing customers with complete transparency from tree to bottle."

Pompeian's Sensory Panel is led by Pompeian's Vice President of Quality and Research & Development, Dr. Luisito Cercaci, who is one of the most experienced olive oil scientists in the world. Pompeian olive oil is monitored daily for quality assurance.

In addition, Pompeian continues to stand as the first and only olive oil manufacturer to attain the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Quality Monitored Seal for extra virgin olive oil and all Pompeian olive oils carry the NAOOA (North American Olive Oil Association) Certified Quality Seal. Both of these third party organizations follow the strict standards set by the International Olive Council. To learn about Pompeian's commitment to quality, visit Pompeian.com.

About Pompeian, Inc.
Baltimore based since 1906, Pompeian, Inc. is America's largest national brand of olive oil, best-selling wine vinegars and a variety of cooking wines. In addition, Pompeian is the first brand to carry the USDA Quality Monitored seal on its Extra Virgin Olive Oil.