Here's a visual guide to buying, storing and purchasing olive oil.
Olive Oil 101
Presented by the North American Olive Oil Association
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About Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Healthiest option with a broad range of flavors, much like wine
- Produced through natural crushing of olives without heat or chemicals; retains antioxidants
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About Olive Oil
- Heart-healthy monounsaturated fat with mild or minimal flavor
- Produced through natural crushing of olives and then refined; no solvents used.
- A blend of refined olive oil and extra virgin/virgin olive oil.
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Uses
- Sautéing, grilling, roasting, baking, pan frying
- Drizzling, dipping, dressings and marinades
- Smoke Point Range 350 - 410 F
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Uses
- Sautéing, grilling, roasting, baking, pan frying
- Dressings and marinades
- Smoke Point Range 390 - 468 F
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Tip
Extra virgin olive oil can enhance flavors of foods. Pair different EVOOs with dishes to find what you like best.
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Tip
Enhances food without overpowering taste. Olive oil can be used as an alternative to other oils or substituted for margarine or butter.
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STORING OLIVE OILS
Avoid heat, air and light to prolong the shelf life and maintain quality of olive oil.
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Heat
- Store olive oil away from major heat sources, like the stove or oven.
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Air
- Always store olive oil in a bottle with a cap or seal, as air exposure can affect taste.
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Light
- Store olive oil away from windows and fluorescent lighting.
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BOTTOM LINE
Store olive oil in a dark, cool place and use the oil within a few months once opened.
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To download a PDF version of this page, click here.
