Dr. Hamed Faridi, Chief Science Officer for McCormick Receives Ellis Island Medal of Honor

The Ellis Island Medal of Honor, established in 1986 by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO), is awarded each year to a select group of Americans in recognition for accomplishments in their field and inspired service to our nation. It ranks among the nation's most prestigious awards honoring individuals who have made it their mission to share with those less fortunate their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents and selfless generosity; all while maintaining the traditions of their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America. Both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate have officially recognized the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and each year's recipients are listed in the Congressional Records.

Dr. Faridi, a renowned food scientist, leads a global team of scientists and flavor experts at McCormick where he is responsible for research, product development and technical services.  Dr. Faridi's vision led to the creation and development of the McCormick Science Institute (MSI), an independent research group whose mission is to increase the scientific understanding of the potential health benefits of culinary spices and herbs. MSI has funded over 32 clinical trials at leading American and European universities which have demonstrated that spices and herbs have beneficial physiological effects and can promote healthy eating by increasing the flavor while partially replacing salt, sugar and fat in everyday meals.  These benefits can help consumers implement the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans which were released in January 2016.

"We are delighted that NECO has recognized Dr. Faridi with such an honor. He has transformed McCormick's approach to Health & Wellness and sensory flavor science and has built a global team that's unsurpassed in the industry," said Lawrence Kurzius, President & CEO of McCormick & Company. "His forward-thinking and visionary perspective, passion for diversity and inclusion, and relentless commitment to improving public health, are perfect illustrations of McCormick's belief in the Power of People and our commitment to inspire consumers around the world to make great tasting healthy choices." 

Dr. Faridi joins many distinguished and diverse Americans including: six Presidents of the United States; Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel, Generals Norman Schwarzkopf and Colin Powell, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, Hon. Hillary Clinton, John McCain, Bob Hope, Muhammad Ali, Frank Sinatra, Rosa Parks, Henry Kissinger, Mike Wallace and Mia Farrow, all who have distinguished themselves through their significant contributions to this country.

About McCormick

McCormick & Company, Incorporated is a global leader in flavor.  With $4.3 billion in annual sales, the company manufactures, markets and distributes spices, seasoning mixes, condiments and other flavorful products to the entire food industry – retail outlets, food manufacturers and foodservice businesses.  Every day, no matter where or what you eat, you can enjoy food flavored by McCormick.  McCormick Brings Passion to Flavor™.

For more information, visit www.mccormickcorporation.com.

For information contact:

Corporate Communications: 
Lori Robinson (410) 527-6004 or [email protected]

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160425/359629

SOURCE McCormick & Company, Inc.

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