How do you know if the olive oil is of good quality?

Olive oil is a fundamental element in the Mediterranean diet, not only for its exquisite taste, but also for its numerous health benefits. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to identify when an olive oil is of good quality. Here's how you can tell if the oil you're buying is really good.

1. Check the label

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

Protected designation of origin (PDO) olive oils are regulated by strict rules that guarantee their quality and authenticity. These labels ensure that the oil comes from a specific region and meets certain production standards.

Harvest and bottling date

A good olive oil should have the harvest date clearly indicated. Olive oil is best when it is fresh, so look for products that have been recently harvested and bottled. Ideally, it should be no more than 18 months old from the date of harvest.

Type of oil

There are different types of olive oil, but extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality. Make sure the label clearly states that it is extra virgin olive oil, which guarantees that the oil has not been refined and that its natural properties remain intact.

2. Check the bottle 

Packaging material

Good quality olive oil generally comes in dark glass bottles or metal cans. These materials protect the oil from light, which is crucial to preserve its freshness and properties. Avoid oils that come in clear plastic bottles.

Sealing

The container must be well sealed to prevent oxidation. A good seal ensures that the oil has not been exposed to air, which could deteriorate its quality.

3. Conduct a tasting

Color

Although the color of olive oil can vary from deep green to light golden, it is not a definitive indicator of quality. However, a cloudy color may indicate that the oil contains sediment, which is not necessarily bad, but does require further analysis.

Aroma

Good quality olive oil has a fresh, fruity aroma, with notes that can range from freshly cut grass to apple or tomato. If the oil smells rancid, metallic, or has a vinegary odour, it is probably not of good quality.

Flavor

An extra virgin olive oil should have a balanced flavor with fruity notes, a touch of bitterness, and a peppery pungency felt at the back of the throat. These flavors are indicative of the presence of polyphenols, which are beneficial compounds for your health.

4. Analyses its origin

Source

Olive oils from regions with a long olive-growing tradition, such as Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal, are generally of high quality. Provenance can be a good indicator, but it is not the only guarantee of quality.

Producer

Research the producer. Reputable producers often have a commitment to quality and can provide detailed information on their cultivation and production methods.

5. Certifications and awards

Certifications

In addition to the PDO, it seeks quality certifications and international standards, such as those granted by the International Olive Council (IOC).

Awards

Olive oils that have won prizes in international competitions are usually of excellent quality. These competitions evaluate the oils under very strict criteria.

6. Value for money

Although a higher price does not always guarantee the best quality, high quality extra virgin olive oil tends to be more expensive due to the more careful production processes and smaller scale of production. Be wary of extremely cheap oils, as they may be blended with lower quality oils.

Conclusion

Knowing whether olive oil is of good quality involves paying attention to several factors, from the label and packaging to the aroma and flavour of the product. By taking these elements into account, you can ensure that you are buying an oil that not only enhances your dishes, but also brings health benefits - make every meal a gourmet experience with a good extra virgin olive oil!

At Peña Luna, we take all these factors into account to produce an Extra Virgin Olive Oil of the best quality Do you want to know how our OOOVE is produced?