Olive oil is one of the most valued products in the global gastronomy. However, not all olive oils are the same, and quality can vary significantly. Knowing how to identify a good olive oil is key to fully take advantage of its benefits and flavor. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to differentiate a quality oil from one that is not, so you can make informed decisions when buying.

1. Verify that it is Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality and purity oil. It is extracted from fresh olives through mechanical methods, without chemicals or refining processes. It is an oil without defects, with a very low acidity level (less than 0.8%) and an impeccable flavor.

• Differences between types of olive oil:
  • Extra Virgin: Highest quality, cold extraction, low acidity, superior flavor.
  • Virgin: Good quality, but with slightly higher acidity (up to 2%).
  • Refined or pure olive oil: Subjected to chemical and refining processes, lower quality.

2. Check the Origin of the Oil

A good olive oil usually comes from recognized production areas, such as Spain, Italy, or Greece, where climatic conditions and cultivation methods favor the obtaining of an excellent quality product. Additionally, you can often find on the label the designation of protected origin (DOP) or protected geographical indication (IGP), which guarantees its authenticity.

• Tip: Look for olive oils that mention the origin of the olives and provide details about the production process.

3. Pay Attention to the Harvest Date

Olive oil, like many fresh products, has a limited shelf life. As it ages, it loses flavor and nutritional benefits. The harvest date is key to knowing how fresh the oil is. A good oil should be consumed within a year of being bottled to ensure its maximum freshness.

• Ideal: Buy olive oil with a recent harvest date (less than a year) and consume it before it is too late.

4. Look at the Packaging

The packaging in which olive oil is presented is indicative of the producer's concern for its conservation. The best oils are usually packaged in dark glass bottles or stainless steel cans that protect the contents from light and air, which can degrade the oil quickly.

• Avoid: Oils in plastic or transparent glass containers, as they do not protect the oil from external agents that affect its quality.

5. Examine the Color of the Oil

Although color is not always a direct indicator of quality, it can give you some clues about the state of the oil. Good quality olive oils usually have a color that ranges from intense green to golden yellow. The green color usually indicates a young oil, made with olives harvested before full ripening, while the yellow indicates a more mature oil.

• Caution: An extremely pale or too dark oil may be a sign that it has been refined or has started to oxidize.

6. Smell and Taste of Olive Oil

One of the most effective ways to identify a good olive oil is through its sensory characteristics. The aroma and taste are key indicators of its quality.

• Smell: A good olive oil should smell fresh, with notes reminiscent of fruits, freshly cut grass, or even tomatoes. If it smells rancid, metallic, or waxy, the oil is defective.
• Taste: EVOO should have a balanced flavor, with a touch of bitterness and spiciness in the throat, indicating the presence of natural antioxidants like polyphenols. A flat, metallic, or excessively mild flavor may be a sign of a low-quality or poorly stored oil.

7. Texture and Density

Extra virgin olive oil usually has a light but slightly dense texture, which distinguishes it from other vegetable oils. When pouring it, you should notice that it is not as liquid as water, but has a certain consistency.

• Tip: If the oil seems too liquid and watery, it may not be of good quality or may be mixed with other lower-value oils.

8. Avoid Prices That Are Too Low

Good quality extra virgin olive oil is not cheap, and if you find an oil at an extremely low price, it probably is not what it seems. The production process of EVOO is expensive, from olive harvesting to cold pressing. Therefore, a very low price may be a sign that the product has been adulterated or has not been produced under the best standards.

• Recommendation: Do not compromise quality to save a few euros. Opt for recognized brands and oils with good ratings.

9. Read the Label

The label of olive oil should provide clear information about the type of oil, the region of origin, the harvest date, and other important details such as the extraction process. A good olive oil should not have additives or blends with other types of oil.

• Complete label: Look for oils that include the "Extra Virgin" designation, the acidity (which should be less than 0.8%), and the bottling or harvest date.

10. Do a Home Test

If you still have doubts about the quality of the olive oil you have purchased, you can do a simple test at home. Place a small amount in a glass and bring it to your nose. If the smell is fresh and fruity, it is a good sign of quality. Then, taste it and look for those spicy and bitter nuances in your mouth. If everything is in balance, you can be sure you have a good olive oil.

• Final tip: Store the oil properly, following the advice from the previous article, to maintain its properties for longer.

Choosing a good olive oil may seem complicated at first, but with these practical tips, you will be better prepared to identify a high-quality product. Make sure to pay attention to the label, origin, harvest date, and use your senses to evaluate the taste and smell. Investing in a good olive oil will not only enhance your dishes, but also provide you with greater health benefits. The next time you go to buy oil, you will know exactly what to look for!