How to store Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

Welcome to our article discussing the best way to store olive oil to avoid it turning rancid. One of the most popular types of olive oil is extra virgin olive oil, and many people are unaware of the correct ways to stock it to ensure it remains fresh. In this article, we will be providing you with some useful tips on how to store extra virgin olive oil to maintain its freshness and quality. By following these tips, you can extend the shelf life of your liquid gold and enjoy its delicious taste and nutritional benefits for longer. So, let's get started and discover how you can keep your extra virgin olive oil fresh!

How to store Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

Proper storage is crucial to ensuring that olive oil gets the maximum storage life, as exposure to heat, light, and air can accelerate the oxidation process and cause the oil to spoil more quickly. Keep it away from the stove or any other sources of heat. Exposure to heat and light can cause the oil to break down and lose its flavor and nutritional value. Unlike wine, olive oil does not improve from exposure to oxygen, and it's best to keep the oil in a dark, airtight container.

The temperature for storing oil is very important. We recommend storing the oil at a room temperature of about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). If the kitchen is routinely warmer, consider storing the olive oil in the refrigerator most of the time (in a sealed container away from light and oxygen). Remember that refrigerated olive oil will solidify and turn cloudy, but it will return to its liquid state when it's taken out and left at room temperature for a while.

It is important to consider the type of olive oil you're storing. Extra virgin olive oil is the highest quality and has the most monounsaturated fats, which are good for your health. This type of oil is more delicate and can go rancid more quickly than other types of oil, so it's important to use it within three to six months after opening and not to extend the BBE date on the back label.

Avoid plastic containers, as the oil may absorb some of the plastic's chemicals and affect its quality. It's always a good idea to opt for dark glass or metal containers when storing oils or any other liquids for long-term storage, as these materials are non-reactive and won't leach harmful chemicals into the contents.

It's important to note that olive oil doesn't improve with age, so it's really best to use fresh oil for cooking and other purposes. Olive oil's shelf life depends on how it's stored. There are also some oils to avoid, such as any olive oil that is rancid, has a high acidity level. When extra-virgin olive oil is exposed to oxygen, it can start to degrade and lose its flavor, aroma, and nutritional benefits.

To get the best quality and flavor from your olive oil, it's recommended to store it in a sealed container at room temperature in a dark place (e.g. cupboard). A wide-mouth glass jar is a good option because it makes it easy to pour and scoop out the oil. Make sure the jar has a tight-fitting cap or lid to keep air and light out.

Olive oil stored properly is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.

To sum up, the best way to store your olive oil is to keep it in a cool, dark place away from light and heat sources. Use dark glass, metal containers or a wide-mouth glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, and avoid storing the oil in plastic containers. By following the right way to store olive oil properly, you can enjoy its health benefits and culinary uses for longer. Keep your extra virgin olive oil fresh!