Which? experts have recently warned that the way olive oil is stored can have a significant impact on its flavor. They suggest keeping olive oil in a cool, dark cupboard away from light, heat, and oxygen to prolong its life and prevent it from going off too quickly. Storing olive oil in dark bottles rather than clear ones is also recommended to protect it from the harmful effects of light. However, while light exposure is harmful, putting olive oil in the fridge can cause congealing and diminish its fresh, fruity green aroma.
Susan Stillson, a senior culinary development chef at Whole Foods Market, emphasizes the importance of using your own sense of smell and taste to determine the freshness of olive oil rather than relying solely on the expiration date. Rancid olive oil is described as smelling musty, like waxy crayons, or stale walnuts. Despite concerns about the quality of olive oil, Deoleo, a manufacturer, is expected to slash prices in half this year, providing some relief to consumers who have turned to cost-efficient alternatives like vegetable or canola oil.
Consumers have been seeking relief from record prices of olive oil, which reached nearly $13 per bottle in 2024 due to extreme weather issues in rural Europe. Many people have been opting for vegetable or canola oil instead of olive oil, which has led to a decrease in demand for the highly sought-after product. However, the health benefits of olive oil, including its positive effects on neurological and gut health, make it a valuable addition to one’s diet.
Understanding the proper way to store and use olive oil can ensure that you are getting the most out of this valuable cooking ingredient. By keeping olive oil in a cool, dark cupboard and paying attention to its smell and taste, you can prevent it from going bad and losing its flavor. While it is important to protect olive oil from light and heat, refrigeration should be avoided as it can cause congealing and alter its aroma. By following these tips, home chefs can enjoy high-quality olive oil in their cooking without the risk of ruining its flavor.
Ultimately, the key to preserving the freshness and flavor of olive oil lies in proper storage and handling. By investing in dark bottles, storing olive oil in a cool, dark place, and using your senses to assess its quality, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of this valuable ingredient. With prices expected to decrease in the near future, it is a good time to invest in high-quality olive oil and enjoy its numerous health benefits. By making small changes in how you store and use olive oil, you can elevate your culinary creations and enhance your overall well-being.
