The Labels:
Ok, here when we say “labels” we are not talking
about a particular company. Instead, we are talking about some of the terminologies
that you might across on olive oil bottles in the market. A lot of these
terminologies can be confusing for first-time olive oil shoppers. This is why
we have decided to dive in and clear any and every confusion for you.
Extra-virgin vs Virgin Olive Oils Oils:
Both extra-virgin and virgin olive oil India manufactures are produced with the help of a
crushing method. This is done by crushing olives into a paste and then pressing
it to bring out the oil in it. There is no heat used in any of the processes
involved in this kind of extraction. The main difference between extra-virgin
and virgin olive oil is that extra virgin oils are made within 24 hours of
picking the olives. This is why the fatty acid content in extra virgin olive
oil is less when compared to virgin olive oils. Another difference between
extra-virgin oils and virgin olive oils is that the former also has more
polyphenols in it.
Filtered vs Unfiltered Oils:
Unfiltered
oils are those that still contain tiny particles of olive flesh in them. These
particles, in turn, reduce the shelf life of the oil itself. The particles will
also end up giving the oil a cloudy appearance, unlike the clear appearance of
the filtered olive oil.
Pure Olive Oil
Pure olive oil, also simply known as olive oil fall
below extra-virgin and virgin standards. This is essentially because they are
heavily processed to help remove flavours or fragrances. They do contain
monounsaturated fats in them, but healthy polyphenols are nowhere to be found.
Another variety that is found in India is pomace olive oil for cooking. This is another kind that falls under the same tag
as pure olive oil.
Product of Italy
Yes, we know this sounds really fancy, but that does
not mean that the olives the olive oil was made from were grown in Italy. It
simply means that the oil was processed in Italy.
The Shopping:
Now comes the tricky part; the actual shopping.
Apart from the labels mentioned above, there are other things that you need to
keep in mind when buying your first bottle of olive oil.
Exposure to light
When olive oil is exposed to light, over a period of
time, it will go rancid, without a doubt. This is why ALWAYS buy the olive oil
that comes in a dark-tinted bottle or that is available in a can and remember
to store it in a cool and dark place at home.
Dates of Bottling and Expiration:
It is always important to notice both the bottling
and the expiration dates on the bottle of the olive oil in India. This will help guide you on the shelf life of
the oil.
The Size:
Even if you plan to use the olive oil on a regular
basis, it is important that you buy smaller bottles instead of one big bottle.
This is because soon as you open a big bottle, the polyphenols and the flavour
end up diminishing when they are exposed to air.
The Colour
Contrary to popular belief, the colour of the olive
oil doesn't indicate the quality of the olive. Instead, it is an indicator of
the kind of olives used and their ripeness.
The Bottom Line:
The regular usage of olive oil can truly change your life, but it is extremely important to know how to buy the right olive oil for you. We sure hope this guide will come in handy in your time of need.
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