What is EVOO, what is it for and which is better?

What does EVOO mean?

EVOO stands for Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the highest category of olive oil, obtained solely by mechanical means and without chemical treatments.

What differentiates EVOO from other olive oils?

EVOO has lower acidity (≤ 0.8%), a purer flavor, intense fruity aromas and retains all its healthy properties intact.

What is the maximum acidity allowed in EVOO?

The maximum permissible acidity is 0.8%. The lower the acidity, the higher the quality.

How to recognize a good EVOO?

For its fresh smell, balanced fruity, spicy or bitter flavor, silky texture, and color that ranges from intense green to bright gold.

Which olive varieties are best for producing EVOO?

Some of the best varieties are Picual, Arbequina, Hojiblanca, Cornicabra and Frantoio, each with a characteristic flavor and aroma.

What are the benefits of consuming EVOO regularly?

It improves cardiovascular health, reduces cholesterol, is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and promotes digestion.

Does color indicate the quality of EVOO?

Not necessarily. The color depends on the type of olive and its ripeness; it doesn't always reflect superior quality.

Can EVOO be used for cooking or just raw?

Yes, you can cook perfectly with EVOO. It withstands high temperatures better than other vegetable oils and adds flavor and health to dishes.

Does EVOO expire or lose properties over time?

Yes, although it doesn't expire quickly, it loses aromas, flavor, and nutritional properties over time. It's recommended to consume it within the first 12-18 months of extraction.

How to properly store EVOO?

It should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from direct light and away from heat sources.

Is it better to buy EVOO in a glass or plastic bottle?

Dark glass or metal cans are always preferable, as they better preserve the oil's properties against light and oxygen.

How many calories are in a tablespoon of EVOO?

Approximately 120 calories per tablespoon (15 ml).

What does "cold extraction" mean?

The oil is obtained at a temperature below 27°C, thus preserving its nutritional, aromatic and taste characteristics to the maximum.

Why does EVOO have bitter and spicy flavors?

These flavors indicate the presence of natural antioxidants (polyphenols), which are compounds beneficial to health.

Is EVOO suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets?

Yes, it's completely plant-based and an excellent source of healthy fats suitable for all types of diets.

What does monovarietal oil mean?

It is an oil made from a single variety of olive, which allows its unique sensory characteristics to be clearly appreciated.

Is it true that EVOO helps you lose weight?

It doesn't help you lose weight on its own, but it helps control your appetite, promotes satiety, and is key to a balanced, healthy diet.

Does EVOO lose properties when heated?

When heated for a long time and at very high temperatures, it may lose some antioxidant properties, but it remains stable and healthy for cooking.

Is it better to consume filtered or unfiltered EVOO (raw)?

It depends on personal taste. Unfiltered oil retains more of its initial aromas but can deteriorate more quickly; filtered oil lasts longer, maintaining its properties.

What is a blend in EVOO?

It is an oil obtained by blending different varieties of olives to achieve balanced and specific flavors and aromas.

Which countries produce the best EVOO in the world?

Spain, Italy, Greece, and Portugal stand out for their high quality and tradition, with Spain being the world's largest producer.

What certifications indicate the quality of EVOO?

Protected Designations of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) or ecological seals guarantee the authenticity and quality of the product.

What is the difference between organic and conventional oil?

Organic olive oil comes from olives grown without chemicals or pesticides, respecting the environment and with official certification.

Can EVOO be consumed during pregnancy?

Yes, it is healthy for pregnant women, provides essential fats and vitamin E, and contributes to fetal development.

Is it normal for EVOO to solidify when cold?

Yes, it's a natural, reversible process that doesn't affect its quality. It returns to its liquid state when it returns to temperature.

What is the ideal temperature for storing EVOO?

Ideally between 15°C and 20°C, in cool places, without sudden changes in temperature.

Why do some oils indicate the harvest date on the label?

Because the freshness of oil is linked to its quality, flavor, and health benefits. The harvest date guarantees that the oil is fresh.

What are the polyphenols in EVOO?

They are natural antioxidants present in the oil, responsible for health benefits such as reducing cardiovascular risk and having anti-inflammatory effects.

What determines whether an oil is considered premium?

The exceptional quality of the selected olives, careful production methods, low temperatures, low acidity, and outstanding sensory characteristics.

Can EVOO be used to fry food?

Yes, in fact, it's one of the best oils for frying thanks to its resistance to high temperatures, while also providing health benefits.

Can EVOO be consumed on keto or ketogenic diets?

Yes, it is highly recommended for its high content of healthy fats and low carbohydrates.

How does olive ripening influence the flavor of EVOO?

Green olives produce more intense, bitter, and spicy oils, while ripe olives produce milder, sweeter oils.

What does it mean for an EVOO to have a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin)?

It guarantees that the oil comes from a specific geographical area, with specific varieties, traditional methods, and controlled quality.

How long does it take for an olive to become EVOO after harvest?

Generally less than 24 hours, to preserve freshness, aromas and nutritional properties.

Why is EVOO more expensive than other vegetable oils?

Due to its superior quality, limited production, mechanical processes, and lower yield, which guarantees unique flavor, aroma, and healthy properties.

What is an early or early harvest oil?

It is made with olives harvested at the beginning of the season, when they are still green, offering intense aromas and a higher concentration of antioxidants.

Is it true that EVOO helps care for your skin?

Yes, EVOO hydrates, nourishes, and protects the skin thanks to its natural antioxidants, vitamin E, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Does EVOO contain gluten?

No, EVOO is naturally gluten-free and suitable for people with celiac disease.

What exactly does "extra virgin" mean?

It indicates that it is an oil obtained solely by mechanical processes, without chemical alterations, and of excellent sensory and chemical quality.

Why does EVOO sometimes cause an itchy throat?

It is a positive sign, caused by its antioxidant polyphenols, which indicates freshness and high quality.

Can EVOO replace butter in sweet recipes?

Yes, EVOO is an excellent, healthy alternative to butter in baking, providing juiciness and flavor.

Does EVOO prevent heart disease?

Yes, numerous studies indicate that frequent consumption of this herb reduces cardiovascular risks due to its monounsaturated fat and antioxidant content.

What is the recommended daily amount of EVOO?

2 to 4 tablespoons (30-60 ml) a day are recommended to fully benefit from its benefits.

What is the difference between virgin and extra virgin olive oil?

Extra virgin oil is of superior quality, with less acidity (≤0.8%) and better sensory properties than virgin oil (acidity ≤2%).

How do soil and climate influence the quality of EVOO?

Soil composition and climate influence the flavor, aroma, and nutritional quality of the oil, providing unique characteristics to each producing area.

Can EVOO be used in children's diets?

Yes, it is highly recommended in children's diets from the first foods due to its healthy fats essential for growth and development.

Can EVOO be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen without any problems, although it's not necessary. Once thawed, it returns to its original properties.

What does “limited edition” Premium EVOO mean?

Indicates that it is a low-production oil, made from specially selected olives and subject to strict quality controls.

What role does sensory tasting play in EVOO?

Tasting is essential to evaluate sensory attributes (fruity, bitter, spicy) and determine the category and quality of the oil.

Is organic EVOO healthier?

Nutritionally, it is similar to conventional oil, but since it is free of chemicals and pesticides, it can be considered healthier for the environment.

Which oil is better for salads, mild or intense?

It depends on personal taste; intense oils provide personality and a strong aroma, while mild oils are more delicate and balanced.

Why are some oils cloudy or have sediment?

Unfiltered oils tend to be cloudy due to natural residues from the olive. This doesn't indicate lower quality, but rather less processing and greater naturalness.

How does sunlight affect EVOO?

Prolonged exposure to light deteriorates its nutritional and organoleptic properties, so it is recommended to store it in dark places.

What is oleocanthal present in EVOO?

It is a polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, responsible for the characteristic spiciness of extra virgin olive oil.

Can you take EVOO on an empty stomach?

Yes, taking a tablespoon of EVOO on an empty stomach helps improve digestion, protect the liver, and increase nutrient absorption.

What do parameters such as peroxide value and K270 indicate in EVOO?

These parameters measure the oxidation and quality of the oil. A low peroxide value indicates freshness, while a low K270 suggests the absence of secondary oxidation.

What is an olive oil mill and what is its role in EVOO production?

An olive mill is the facility where olives are processed to extract oil using mechanical procedures.

What does it mean for an EVOO to have PDO or PGI certification?

These certifications guarantee that the oil comes from a specific region and meets established quality and production standards.

How to interpret an EVOO label to determine its quality?

The label may indicate the olive variety, harvest date, extraction method, and quality certifications, which helps evaluate the product.

What are the differences between olive varieties such as Picual, Arbequina, and Hojiblanca?

Each variety contributes distinct flavors and characteristics to the EVOO: Picual is intense and bitter, Arbequina is smooth and fruity, and Hojiblanca offers a balance between the two.