Suzy Eats

Did you know that where and how you store your olive oil is just as important as what kind of olive oil you are using???

Since olive oil contains a high amount of monounsaturated fat, it can be store much longer than other types of oil. But there are three enemies of oil: AIR, HEAT and LIGHT. All 3 of these can cause the oil to create free radicals and become oxidized which leads to less health benefits and rancidity that can leave a bad taste in your mouth.

There is also some evidence that if you do not store olive oil properly some of the health benefits may diminish. 

In a study that appeared in a 2004 issue of the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, researchers tested olive oil that had been stored for 1 year under perfect conditions. After 1 year, much of the olive oil’s healing powers were diminished. The vitamin E was gone, nearly 30 percent of the chlorophyll deteriorated, and 40 percent of the beta-carotene had disintegrated. Phenol levels had also dropped as well. 

Here are some tips for olive oil—

Buying: Try to pick olive oil out of a tinted glass container versus a clear glass as it has been exposed to less light. If you are purchasing in a store, pick the one in the back row since it has been exposed to the least amount of flourescent light. Order online or on the phone and have it shipped directly to your home. Less light = less rancidity and less oxidation.

Storage Container: The best choice is a tinted glass (to keep light out) or a nonreactive metal, such as stainless steel. Many people who choose to purchase olive oil in bulk get it in large stainless steel containers. This helps to keep the olive oil fresh. Try to avoid storing the olive oil in a plastic container as well since oil can absorb noxious substances such as polyvinyl chlorides (PVCs) out of the plastic. The storage container also needs a tight cap to help keep out air.

Store: Store the olive oil in a cool, dark place. Some options are a kitchen pantry or cabinet. A great option is a wine cellar if you have one. The best storage temperature is around 60 degrees F.

Inert gas: If you want it to last longer and taste fresh, try adding inert gas (can get it from a wine shop).

Hope these tips help…..Do you have any others??