What is EVOO?
EVOO is also known as extra virgin olive oil. Different types of olive oil are available in the market; extra virgin olive oil is the most preferred. The richness of antioxidants properties, pleasant taste, and aromas make EVOO a noteworthy version of olive oil.
Extra virgin olive oil is also called the least processed olive oil. It is extracted using the cold-pressing method, so the free fatty acidity content remains low in the EVOO. You can enjoy EVOO straight from the bottle or incorporate it into salads for a burst of flavor. If we talk about the core characteristics of EVOO, these are as follows:
- It is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and many more natural ingredients.
- It has fewer chemicals.
- EVOO has a very pleasant taste.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil takes place under the virgin olive oil category according to olive oil types and definitions of IOC. There are two other categories of virgin olive oils. These are Virgin Olive Oil and Lamptante.
According to European Commission, virgin olive oil is “the olive oil obtained directly from olives and solely by mechanical means.” However, not all virgin olive oils have the same quality. Some of them have higher quality and are edible; one is even non-edible.
Extra virgin olive oil includes two groups of chemical compounds. The first one is triglycerides, with a portion of 97–99%, and the second is minor components, with a portion of 1–3%.
Triglycerides mainly contain,
- a monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid),
- a fair amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and
- a small amount of saturated fatty acids.
Chemical Quality Standards
One of the top-quality indicators of an EVOO is the chemical quality standards. There are pre-defined quality parameters for olive oil’s suitableness with extra virgin olive oil standards.
Artem Oliva’s olive oil quality laboratory works 7/24 when there is production to sustain the best quality continuously.
The smoke point limits the temperature a liquid fat can tolerate. If the smoke point is exceeded, the oil gets damaged in the chemical structure and gives a rancid taste to the food in it. For a proper extra virgin olive oil, the smoke point is defined as 210°C. The smoke point can be higher if the extra virgin olive oils are good.
EVOO can be used in both cold and hot meal servings. Artem Oliva’s olive oils have been used in people’s kitchens worldwide for many years.
Most of our customers seek the best solution for their olive oil needs. Some of them are just looking for an olive oil bottling service, and some others are looking for a private label olive oil solutions.
At Artem Oliva, customers receive comprehensive information about the product, including descriptions, ingredients, storage, packaging, distribution, intended uses, sensory properties, and physical and chemical features.
So, if you are looking for an olive oil brand from where you will get the highest quality olive oil, you should get in touch with Artem Oliva.
How to Choose the Best EVOO
Selecting the best extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is crucial when embracing the Mediterranean diet, known for its numerous health benefits. With countless options in the market, making the right choice can be challenging. This guide will help you make an educated decision by explaining how to read labels, understand certifications, evaluate taste, aroma, and color, and provide tips for buying and storing EVOO.
Reading Labels and Understanding Certifications
Check the origin: The label should indicate the country of origin and the region where the olives were grown. High-quality EVOO, ideal for the Mediterranean diet, typically comes from Turkey.
The country of origin plays a crucial role in the quality and characteristics of olive oil. In the Mediterranean region, each district has its unique climate, soil conditions, and olive varieties. These factors directly influence the aroma, taste, and nutritional value of the olive oil extracted.
Knowing the country where olive oil comes from helps buyers make better choices when picking the best extra virgin olive oil. Therefore, customers can enjoy the variety of each unique olive oil type and the rich history of olive oil.
Harvest Date: Freshness is essential for EVOO quality. Look for the harvest date on the label, and choose a bottle from the most recent harvest.
The olive oil harvest date is crucial. This date tells you when the olives were picked and turned into oil.
To ensure you’re getting the freshest oil, look for the harvest date on the label and choose one that’s as close to the current date as possible.
The usual olive harvest takes place between October and January period. Therefore, the harvest date of the olive oil you are considering buying shall be September of the last year at the earliest. Artem Oliva branded EVOO products are produced no later than the current season’s olive oils. In this way, Artem Oliva can keep supplying fresh EVOO.
Certifications: Quality certifications, such as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), ensure that the EVOO meets specific regional standards. Look for these certifications on the label when selecting oil for your Mediterranean diet.
Chemical Analysis: Some labels may include acidity levels and polyphenol content information. Opt for EVOO with low acidity (below 0.8%) and a high concentration of polyphenols contribute to the Mediterranean diet’s health benefits. The basic olive oil quality parameters make a huge difference overall.
In summary, the labeling requirements for pre-packaged olive oil and olive pomace oil products include:
- Name of the product.
- Net contents by volume in the metric system.
- Name and address of the olive oil manufacturer, co-packer, distributor, importer, exporter, or seller.
- Country of origin, or the country where substantial processing took place.
- Geographical indications and designations of origin for virgin and extra virgin olive oils, if applicable.
- Lot identification for each container.
- Date of minimum durability (best before the end), declared by month and year.
- Storage instructions, if needed.
- The number and type of containers held in the pack should be added for forwarding packs.
For bulk olive oil, labeling should include the product’s name, net contents by weight or volume, the name and address of the manufacturer, distributor, or exporter, and the name of the exporting country.
Evaluating Taste, Aroma, and Color
Taste: A high-quality EVOO should have a well-balanced flavor profile that includes fruity, bitter, and pungent notes, complementing the flavors of the Mediterranean diet. The taste should be pleasant, fresh, and not too greasy.
Aroma: EVOO should have a fresh and fruity aroma reminiscent of olives, herbs, or grass. The smell should be robust, not rancid, enhancing your Mediterranean diet experience.
Color: Although color is not a reliable indicator of EVOO quality, it can range from green to golden-yellow. A darker color may suggest higher levels of chlorophyll and antioxidants. However, it is essential to taste the oil to determine its quality.
When it comes to extra-virgin olive oil, there are some positive things to look out for. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Fruity: This means the oil smells like fresh, healthy fruit. Depending on the type of olives used and how ripe they are, the oil might smell like green or ripe fruit. You can smell this directly or taste it in your mouth.
- Bitter: Some olive oils have a bitter taste. This is normal, especially in oils made from green olives or olives that are starting to change color. You might feel this bitterness on the back of your tongue.
- Pungent: This is a tingling feeling you might get when you taste certain olive oils. It’s common in oils made from green olives, especially at the start of the olive season. You might feel it in your throat or all over your mouth.
Understanding these terms can help you appreciate the different flavors and qualities of olive oil.
Taste the Mediterranean: Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
Embarking on a Mediterranean diet journey involves incorporating the best quality ingredients into your meals, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is no exception. To maximize the health benefits and enhance the flavors of your dishes, it’s essential to know the right tips for buying EVOO. In this section, we will provide you with valuable insights to help you select the perfect EVOO for your Mediterranean diet and maintain its quality and freshness for a delightful culinary experience.
Choose a Reputable Retailer: Purchase EVOO from a reliable store or online retailer with a high turnover, ensuring the product is fresh and well-stored for your Mediterranean diet.
Packaging: Opt for dark glass bottles or opaque containers that protect the oil from light exposure, which can degrade its quality.
Storage: Store your EVOO in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Proper storage helps maintain the oil’s freshness and nutritional properties, which are essential for the Mediterranean diet.
Use within a Reasonable Time: Once opened, aim to consume EVOO within three to six months to enjoy its optimal flavor and health benefits as part of your Mediterranean diet.
Choosing the best extra virgin olive oil for your Mediterranean diet may seem challenging, but with this comprehensive guide, you can confidently make an informed decision.
By understanding labels and certifications and evaluating the taste, aroma, and color, you can select a high-quality EVOO to enhance your culinary experience. Remember to store your EVOO properly to preserve its freshness, and enjoy the delicious taste and health benefits it adds to your Mediterranean diet.
Make sure to pay attention to quality; choose Artem Oliva EVOO for your Mediterranean diet and taste the difference. Are you ready to change the course of your culinary journey? Explore our EVOO products and start experiencing the authentic flavor of the Mediterranean now!