Olive oil is one of the great treasures of the Mediterranean diet, but not all oils are the same. Depending on their production process, quality, and culinary use, we find different categories. At Origen Oliva we focus exclusively on Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), both in large format and early harvest options, because we believe it is the healthiest, most authentic, and most flavorful choice for our customers.
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
Extra Virgin is considered the pure juice of the olive. It is obtained only through mechanical processes such as grinding and centrifugation, without the use of chemicals or refining. This process preserves its full fruity aromas and intense flavors, as well as all its natural antioxidants.
EVOO offers a balanced flavor, with fresh and complex nuances that vary according to the olive variety. It is perfect both for raw use (salads, bread, cheese, grilled meats and fish) and for frying or stewing, thanks to its thermal stability.
2. Virgin Olive Oil
Virgin olive oil shares its natural origin with EVOO but presents slight imperfections in taste or aroma. It is a healthy and good-quality product, though less complex and appealing than Extra Virgin. It is usually consumed in cooked dishes, as its sensory profile is not as distinctive.
3. Olive Oil (refined + virgin)
The so-called “olive oil” commonly found in supermarkets is a blend of refined oils with a small percentage of virgin oil. Refining removes natural flavors and properties, resulting in a neutral oil with little character. Although economical and versatile, it cannot compare to the sensory and nutritional richness of EVOO.
4. Olive Pomace Oil
This oil is made from the solid remains of the olive after the first extraction (skin, pit, and pulp). It requires chemical and thermal processes to obtain. It is a lower-quality oil, with a flat taste, usually intended for industrial or low-cost catering use.
5. Origin and Production Process
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made from olives harvested at their optimal ripeness. In the case of early harvest oils, the olives are picked green at the start of the season, resulting in a more intense and aromatic oil. After harvesting, the olives are milled within a few hours to prevent oxidation, and centrifugation is used to separate the pure juice from the fruit. This careful process makes the difference compared to other oils.
6. Thermal Stability and Culinary Uses
EVOO is the most stable vegetable oil at high temperatures, making it an excellent choice for frying, sautéing, or stewing. Unlike other oils that degrade quickly with heat, EVOO better retains its properties and does not easily produce harmful substances. At the same time, when used raw, it enhances salads, vegetables, meats, and fish, adding unique aromas and nuances.
7. Storage and Shelf Life
To preserve EVOO in perfect condition, it should be stored in a cool place, protected from light and heat sources. Containers such as large-format PET or tins offer good protection against oxidation. Although olive oil does not expire, it gradually loses freshness and aromas over time, so it is advisable to consume it within a year of bottling.
If you want to learn more, read our article: How to store Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
8. Price and Accessibility
The price of olive oils varies depending on their quality. EVOO is usually more expensive than virgin or refined oils due to its more demanding production process and the quality of its raw material. However, buying in family-size 5-liter jerrycans or large containers allows you to enjoy the best oil at a more affordable price per liter. At Origen Oliva, we select oils from cooperatives and mills in Jaén that combine superior quality with competitive prices.
9. Comparative Infographic
| Category | Process | Taste and Aroma | Recommended Uses | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Virgin | Mechanical extraction | Fruity, complex, without defects | Raw use and cooking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Virgin | Mechanical extraction | Good, slight imperfections | Hot cooking | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Olive | Refined + blend | Neutral, mild flavor | Frying and general use | ⭐⭐ |
| Pomace | Chemical processing | Flat, industrial | Low-cost catering | ⭐ |
10. Conclusion
There are several categories of olive oil on the market, but only Extra Virgin Olive Oil offers the perfect balance of quality, flavor, and health benefits. It is the true juice of the olive and the best choice for those seeking culinary excellence.
That’s why at Origen Oliva we work exclusively with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
At Origen Oliva we offer only EVOO from the province of Jaén, ranging from early harvest oils to family-size formats, so you can enjoy the true flavor of the olive grove at your table.
👉 Keep learning on our blog: Olive Oil Varieties | How to Store Olive Oil | Quality and Labeling
