Preserving extra virgin olive oil is important to maintain its quality, flavor, and health benefits. Here are some tips to preserve extra virgin olive oil:
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Store in a cool, dark place: Olive oil should be stored away from light and heat as light and heat can break down the oil, reducing its flavor and health benefits. Keep the oil in a pantry or a kitchen cabinet, away from the stove, oven, or windows that receive direct sunlight.
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Use airtight containers: Oxygen is another factor that can cause the oil to deteriorate. Store the oil in airtight containers, such as dark glass bottles or canisters with tight-fitting lids. This will help to reduce the amount of air that comes into contact with the oil.
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Keep the oil fresh: Buy only the amount of oil that you will use within a few months and try to use it before its best-before date. Once opened, use the oil within a few months for best quality.
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Avoid contamination: Make sure the bottle or container is clean before you use it, and avoid using utensils that may have come into contact with strong-smelling foods, as this can affect the oil’s flavor.
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Keep the oil cool: Extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point than other oils, so it’s important to store it at a cool temperature. Don’t refrigerate the oil, as this can cause it to become cloudy and solidify.
By following these tips, you can help to preserve the quality and flavor of your extra virgin olive oil and ensure that you are getting the full health benefits from this nutritious oil.
EVOO is a perfect adition to any diet.
At Los Lobos we design and produce our bottles and containers to preserve the quality and flavor of the oil. Here are some ways in which our bottles are designed to achieve this:
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Material: The bottles are typically made of glass, which is an impermeable material that prevents light, oxygen, and other environmental factors from affecting the oil. Glass is also non-reactive, which means it doesn’t interact chemically with the oil, preserving its flavor.
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Color: We use dark-colored glass, such as green or brown, to further protect the oil from light. Dark glass helps to block out harmful UV rays, which can break down the oil and reduce its quality.
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Shape: The shape of the bottle can also play a role in preserving the oil’s quality. For example, bottles that are tall and narrow with a small opening can help to reduce the amount of air that comes into contact with the oil, which can slow down the oxidation process and preserve the oil’s flavor.
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Cap: The bottle cap or closure is also an important component in preserving the oil’s quality. We use airtight, screw-top caps that seal the bottle and prevent oxygen from entering. Bottles also come with a pour spout that allows for easy and controlled pouring of the oil.