Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil, also known as “raw olive oil,” is oil that has not undergone the filtration process to remove impurities and solid particles present in the oil.
This means it retains a greater amount of sediments and natural residues from the olives, giving it a more cloudy and opaque appearance. Although it may have a more intense flavor and aroma, its shelf life can be shorter due to the presence of sediments, and its use in cooking may be more limited because it can clog sprayers or misters.
However, some people appreciate unfiltered olive oil because they believe it maintains greater authenticity and retains potential nutrients and antioxidants that could be lost during filtration—though this is a misconception.
What Is the Purpose of Filtering EVOO?
The filtration of EVOO serves to remove impurities and solid particles present in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This process is carried out using different methods, such as paper filters or mechanical filtration systems, which trap unwanted particles.
This filtration process has several effects on the olive oil. Firstly, it improves its visual appearance by removing impurities and sediments, leaving a cleaner and more transparent oil. This gives it a more aesthetically appealing presentation.
Additionally, filtration helps improve the oil’s stability. By removing solid particles, the chances of the oil becoming rancid or deteriorating over time are reduced. This results in a longer shelf life and the preservation of the oil’s organoleptic characteristics, such as flavor and aroma.
Why Is It Better to Consume Filtered Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Filtered Extra Virgin Olive Oil is considered superior to unfiltered EVOO for several reasons. Below are five paragraphs explaining why filtered olive oil is better:
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Removal of impurities: The filtration process removes impurities and solid particles that may be present in unfiltered oil. This includes remnants of pulp, leaves, branches, and other residues that could have accumulated during oil extraction. The removal of these impurities enhances the oil’s quality and visual appearance, giving it a cleaner and more appealing look.
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Greater stability: Filtered olive oil tends to be more stable than unfiltered oil. By removing solid particles and sediments, the chances of the oil becoming rancid or deteriorating over time are reduced. This is especially important for extra virgin olive oil, which is prized for its freshness and quality. Filtered oil is better able to maintain its organoleptic properties and health benefits over time.
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Better tasting experience: Filtering olive oil contributes to a more pleasant tasting experience. By removing solid particles, undesirable flavors are reduced, allowing the natural fruity, herbal, and peppery notes of each olive variety to shine through, providing a more complete and satisfying tasting experience.
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Culinary versatility: Filtered olive oil is more versatile in cooking. Since it does not contain sediments, it is less likely to clog sprayers or misters used to apply oil to foods. This makes it easier to use and measure precisely in cooking, allowing for a wide range of dishes and preparations.
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Longer shelf life: Filtered olive oil typically has a longer shelf life than unfiltered oil. By removing impurities and solid particles, the risk of spoilage or rancidity is reduced. This means filtered oil can be stored for longer without losing its organoleptic and nutritional qualities, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful for a longer time.
In summary, filtered EVOO is preferable to unfiltered oil due to its higher quality, greater stability, enhanced tasting experience, culinary versatility, and longer shelf life. By removing impurities, a purer, clearer oil suitable for various culinary uses is obtained, while preserving the authentic and beneficial characteristics of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
That is why, at Aceite de Jaén Online, the vast majority of the products we offer—over 95%—are Filtered EVOOs, although we also have a section dedicated to Unfiltered Olive Oils for those who wish to try them.
