Liquid Gold: The Olive Oil Buying Guide
Ever wonder if the olive oil sitting on your kitchen counter is the real deal? With reports suggesting that up to 70% of store-bought extra virgin olive oils in the US are not what they seem, there’s a big chance it’s not.
The good news is that scoring quality ‘liquid gold’ really just comes down to knowing how to read a label — and figuring out some lingo. With that in mind, here are 6 things to look for the next time you’re replacing your olive oil.
Why This Even Matters
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) isn’t just a kitchen staple, it’s a powerhouse of health benefits. It comes loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E which has been known to help reduce bad cholesterol and fight inflammation. It's also a champ at keeping chronic diseases at bay, and can even support weight management.
Plus, when farmed sustainably, it helps preserve the soil, conserve water, and avoid harsh chemicals. Basically, the perks are plenty — but only if your oil is genuinely high-grade.
Your Ultimate Olive Oil Buying Guide
1. Freshness First
Remember, olive oil isn’t wine — it’s not meant to ‘age gracefully’. Make sure you’re looking for a harvest date on the label and the more recent, the better. This date shows when the olives were actually plucked from the trees, which means peak flavor and nutrients.
2. Bottle Smarts
Oxygen and light are olive oil’s sworn enemies. Keep those villains at bay by choosing oil that’s stored in dark glass bottles or other opaque containers. It will help shield the oil from harsh light but also will look pretty nice on your countertop.
3. Know Your Labels
Look for the phrase "extra virgin", it’s your ticket to top-notch quality. This label means your oil was made without heat or chemicals, just good ol’ mechanical pressing. And steer clear of terms like 'pure' or 'light' — they usually mean that the oil is not pure.
4. Certifications Are Key
Those stamps and stickers all over your bottle? They’re not just for show. Look for marks from trusted organizations like the California Olive Oil Council or the European Union's PDO. They're your best bet that the oil meets strict quality standards.
5. Origin Story
The best EVOO often comes from a single source. Check the label for clues about where the oil originated. If it’s coming from more than one country, it’s harder to confirm quality. It’s like detective work, but for your salad.
6. Read the Fine Print
Flip that bottle around and look at the back label. Low free fatty acidity (FFA) and high polyphenol content are what you're after. These details are indicators of a superior oil that’s not just tasty but also packed with antioxidants.
Ready, Set, Drizzle
Companies have been known to add fillers like chlorophyll to sunflower and soybean oil, then selling it as extra virgin olive oil. So, choosing the right EVOO can make a huge difference — not just in flavor but for your health, too.
Next time you’re hitting the supermarket shelves you’ll know exactly what to look for to find the best quality options out there.
