Denver, CO (October 11, 2011) — The American Cheese Society (ACS) has announced that the first
Certification Exam for Cheese Professionals (CECP) will be offered in Raleigh, North Carolina,
immediately prior to the 29th Annual ACS Conference & Competition. The CECP, the only exam of its
kind, was created by ACS to encourage improved standards of comprehensive knowledge and service in
the cheese industry.

The CECP offers professionals in the cheese industry the opportunity to earn the distinguished title of
ACS Certified Cheese Professional (ACS CCP). The designation of ACS CCP after an individual’s name
is a mark of professional excellence, indicating that the individual has acquired the level of knowledge
and expertise that is demanded throughout the cheese industry. CCPs will be required to renew their
certification with ACS every 3 years by demonstrating continued professional development in the industry.

Christine Hyatt, president of the American Cheese Society, said "As the recognized leader in specialty
cheese, ACS is excited to launch the first-ever Certification Exam for Cheese Professionals. This exam
will set the standard for excellence in our industry, and will ensure a well-educated marketplace that can
in turn support a healthy, growing North American cheese economy.”

The CECP will evaluate candidates’ understanding of core competencies common to the specialty
cheese industry. Content for the exam is being developed from the domains identified in the ACS Body of
Knowledge, as well as from information gathered in surveys of key industry representatives.

Applications are now being accepted on the ACS website for the first CECP. Applications will be reviewed
by the ACS Certification Committee. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements outlined on the ACS
website will be invited to register for the exam. The application deadline is March 31, 2012.

ACS plans to announce the first class of CCPs at its Annual Conference & Competition in Raleigh, NC,
which will be held from August 1-4, 2012. ACS will maintain an online directory of ACS CCPs for
reference by organizations and individuals seeking employees, giving ACS CCPs and their employers a
competitive edge in the industry.

The CECP is made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Rogue Creamery, Mons
Fromager-Affineur, DPI Specialty Foods, Kerrygold USA, Beehive Cheese Co., Concord Cheese Shop,
Di Bruno Bros, Formaticum, Larkin, and Vermont Butter & Cheese Creamery.

Opportunities to sponsor the launch of the exam and align your brand with this ground-breaking program
are still available. To learn more about CECP sponsorship opportunities, please contact the ACS office at
720-328-2788 or email rorozco@cheesesociety.org .