Zaragoza (Spain), 13–17 October 2025

The International Olive Council (IOC) will organise an international course for panel leaders on the sensory analysis of virgin olive oil from 13 to 17 October 2025. The course will be held in person at the headquarters of the Zaragoza Mediterranean Agronomic Institute (CIHEAM-Zaragoza) in Spain.

This training is designed specifically for professionals currently responsible for the organoleptic assessment of virgin olive oil, serving as panel leaders or deputy panel leaders.

Please note that applications must be submitted through your country’s official IOC representative. The IOC will not accept direct applications from individuals.

Candidates must be nominated by IOC Member Countries, who are invited to propose participants from sensory analysis tasting panels, either already recognised or in the process of recognition by the IOC, and that operate in accordance with IOC specifications. Preference will be given to ensuring geographical diversity. Candidates who have already attended a previous IOC panel leader course will not be eligible.

By nominating candidates, Members commit to supporting the corresponding panels and to ensure their participation in future IOC check tests under the panel recognition scheme.

For detailed information on the course content, draft programme and participation requirements, click here.