Are you one of those who get overwhelmed by the large number of brands when shopping and don’t know which olive oil to choose? Don’t worry, at Origen Oliva we give you the keys to choosing the best olive oil.
1. What type of olive oil it is: Virgin olive oils are obtained exclusively through mechanical procedures without any chemical intervention. If any aroma or taste defect is detected, the oil must be marketed under the label of virgin olive oil. Meanwhile, oil with no defects and perfect taste and aroma will be sold as extra virgin olive oil. If a chemical or organoleptic defect above the allowed levels is detected, the resulting oil (lampante), not fit for human consumption, must be refined (chemically treated with solvents to remove defects). This process produces a neutral oil to which a percentage of virgin or extra virgin olive oil is added for commercial sale under the name olive oil.
The highest quality oil you can find is extra virgin olive oil
2. Distribution and storage: If you usually buy oil at the supermarket, you should be aware that it may have been stored for weeks or months under conditions far from ideal. To preserve its integrity and freshness, olive oil should be kept away from excessive heat, air, humidity, and especially light.
To prevent oil from losing its qualities, it’s best to ensure it goes directly from the mill to your pantry
3. The container: The type of container also matters. Compared to glass or metal, plastic (as long as it’s not PET or polyethylene) is more permeable to oxygen, which accelerates the aging of the oil.
Opaque glass bottles and metal tins preserve oil better
4. The label should always include:
• The type of specific designation, i.e., whether it is extra virgin olive oil, virgin olive oil, ordinary virgin olive oil, refined olive oil, or olive oil. • The name and address of the manufacturer, bottler, distributor, importer, exporter, or seller. • The country of origin. If the product undergoes modification in a second country, that country is considered the country of origin for labeling purposes. • The indication and denomination of origin. You may find the origin indication (country, region, or locality) and, if awarded, the denomination of origin.
Check the label
5. After all this, another way to know if an extra virgin olive oil is good is by tasting and comparing it, or even consulting reliable third-party opinions.
Go ahead! Discover, taste, and choose
In conclusion, if you want to fully benefit from all the qualities of olive oil and enjoy its flavor, abandon the idea of buying olive oil at the supermarket. Go to places that guarantee the best olive oil directly from the mill to your pantry.
