The Association for Dressings & Sauces Honors Tom McGirty of The Marzetti Company
(May 1, 2026) Greenville, South Carolina – Tom McGirty of The Marzetti Company was presented with the 2026 Technical Service Award from The Association for Dressings and Sauces (ADS). The announcement was made during the ADS Technical Meeting held in Greenville, South Carolina, April 26-28.
“Tom McGirty’s exceptional leadership and technical expertise have been instrumental in advancing both our organization and the broader industry. Through his leadership of the Acidified Foods Task Force and contributions to the Executive Technical Board, he has helped shape best practices, elevate scientific standards, and strengthen collaboration across the field. Simply put, Tom has a rare ability to make complex academic topics engaging—and his infectious enthusiasm inspires those around him to do more” said the nominating ADS member.
“Tom McGirty is an exceptional leader and contributor to the Association for Dressings and Sauces. His leadership of the Acidified Foods Task Force has been instrumental. In addition to his extensive expertise and dedication to the organization, he makes academic topics enjoyable with his fun personality and witty one-liners,” says Alex Fischer, ADS’s Director of Technical and Regulatory Affairs.
The ADS Technical Service Award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates dedicated service to the ADS technical programs. Nominations for this award are taken from the general ADS membership and voted on by ADS’ Executive Technical Board, the group that oversees the Association’s technical activities. At the Technical Meeting, members share their expertise on various industry-specific topics, including packaging, food safety, emulsions, and quality.
“I am truly honored to be recognized by the Association of Dressings and Sauces. This recognition reflects a collective effort shaped by the insight, dedication, and expertise of many talented colleagues who are equally deserving. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional group of professionals whose collaboration made this possible, and I share this recognition with them” Tom McGirty, Vice President – Research and Development shared upon receiving this award. Tom added “I’m grateful to be part of such a strong and supportive organization. Thank you.”
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About The Association of Dressings & Sauces (ADS)
Founded in 1926, the Association for Dressings & Sauces is an international trade association representing manufacturers of salad dressing, mayonnaise, and condiment sauces as well as suppliers of raw materials, packaging and equipment to the industry. Its purpose is to serve the best interests of industry members, its customers, and consumers of its products. For more information about ADS, visit the Association’s website or follow ADS on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
