Key Factors That Degrade an Extra Virgin Olive Oil
When selling in person, I often get asked about storing olive oils. Customers mention pouring it into a clear glass container at home - I explain why this may not be ideal.
A three-year study done by Australian Oils Research Laboratory and published in 2012 confirmed what producers have known for centuries- that heat, light, time, and oxygen can degrade an extra virgin olive oil when exposed , damaging the oil’s flavor, quality, and health benefits of a good quality olive oil.
Let’s break down how these factors affect high-quality oils:
Heat
Temperature control is very important. The lower the storage temperature, the slower the oxidation process — and the longer the oil stays fresh and flavorful. The ideal temperature of good quality olive oils 60-70 F.
Light
There’s a reason premium olive oils come in dark glass bottles. In the study, oils exposed to light developed rancidity and lost antioxidants more quickly than those stored in the dark. Researchers found that these effects can occur at any stage of the oil’s life, which is why proper storage from production to purchase is essential.
Time
Producing olive oils is an art and a science. As soon as the olives are milled, malaxed and extracted, the olive oil is at its peak, where it will have its highest point of polyphenols and antioxidants. From that moment on, time gradually works against it. That’s why it’s best to enjoy your extra virgin olive oil within a reasonable window after purchase. We recommend using it within 6 months of purchase for optimal flavor and health benefits.
Oxygen
Just like light and heat, oxygen accelerates the decline of olive oil. When oil is exposed to air, oxidation begins — reducing antioxidants, stripping away flavors, and eventually causing rancidity. That’s why high-quality producers minimize oxygen exposure by sealing bottles tightly and often filling them only as needed. Once opened at home, it’s best to use your oil within a 6 months to enjoy its peak freshness.
Why buy from Pure Olive?
At Pure Olive, we adhere to the most rigorous industry standards to ensure the utmost quality of our olive oils—encompassing every stage, from meticulous sourcing and precise production to optimal storage and exquisite presentation. Our olive oils are procured from renowned mills globally, with each bottle sourced from a singular, distinguished mill, never amalgamated.