Olive Oil FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions.
What is Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)?
The process of making olive oil includes first crushing of the olive and then pressing to produce the oil. The “Extra” in EVOO represents the absolute highest grade for olive oil. Olive oils can be characterized based on their acidity. “Extra” virgin olive oil has less than 0.8% free fatty acids (FFA) as compared to “Virgin” olive oil which can contain as much as 2%. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the most refined in flavor and contains the highest amount of antioxidants.
Are all of your olive oils extra virgin?
Yes, all of our olive oils are extra virgin olive oils and first cold pressed.
What does first cold press mean?
Also known as cold extraction, this describes the temperature at which the oil was obtained. Temperature is crucial due to its effect on olive oil quality. When high temperatures are applied the more volatile aromas are lost and the rate of oil oxidation is increased, producing therefore lower quality oils. In addition, the chemical content of antioxidants and vitamins present in the oil is reduced by higher temperatures.
Which olive oil is used as the base for your flavor infused oils?
Moroccan olive oil as it has a more subtle natural flavor that does not compete with the flavor being infused.
Where do your olive oils come from?
Our regional specific olive oils come from the countries that we source them from - mostly throughout the Mediterranean region.
How do you store olive oil?
Olive oil should be stored in a cool, dark place, preferably in a dark glass container to shield olive oil from UV rays and light. It does not need to be stored in the refrigerator.
What is the “shelf life” of Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Most high quality EVOOs, if stored properly, will maintain their integrity for at least one year. Freshness provides key taste attributes and after 12 months, you will begin to lose that fresh taste. Additionally, the vitamin E content will begin to naturally decrease after the first year.
What are the health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
High in monounsaturated fat – the “good” fat – olive oil may prolong life by combating coronary heart disease and different types of cancer. Up to 80% of olive oil is made of monounsaturated fatty acids which resist oxidation and help keep HDL (good cholesterol) levels up and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels down. Additionally, the presence of phenols and other natural antioxidants in olive oil prevents the formation of certain free radicals that may cause cell destruction within the human body. Olive oil contains no salt and is cholesterol-free.
Should one cook with EVOO?
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is perfect for sauces, sautés, marinades, and vinaigrettes, in addition to being a fine finishing oil or simply as a dipping sauce for bread.
Why is Extra Virgin Olive Oil superior to other oils?
Taste is the most obvious difference between EVOO and store bought vegetable oils. Vegetable oil adds fat without adding taste. EVOO adds a specific fresh flavor and with the many fused and infused flavors available, your recipes can become masterpieces. Vegetable oils are usually extracted using petroleum-based chemical solvents and then must be highly refined to remove impurities. Refining also removes taste, color and nutrients. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is not processed or refined. It is fresh pressed from the fruit of the olive tree, leaving the color, flavor, vitamins and nutrients intact.
Can I replace butter and margarine with Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Yes. EVOO can replace butter or margarine in any baking or cooking recipe. Here is a conversion chart:
Butter/Margarine ...................EVOO
1 tsp............................................3/4 tsp.
1 Tbsp........................................ 2 1/4 tsp.
1/4 cup ......................................3 Tbsp.
1/3 cup ......................................1/4 cup
1/2 cup...............................1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp.
2/3 cup......................................1/2 cup
3/4 cup ...............................1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp.
1 cup..........................................3/4 cup
