How to keep the olive oil to preserve its quality and aromas

Keeping olive oil properly is essential to preserve its taste, its aromas and its nutritional properties. Contrary to what we think, a quality olive oil can quickly deteriorate if it is poorly stored.

The answer is simple: to keep the olive oil, it must be protected from Light, heat and air. These three factors are responsible for oxidation, a natural phenomenon that gradually alter its quality.

In this article, you will understand How to extend the life of your olive oil while maintaining his benefits.

Why is the conservation of olive oil so important?

Olive oil, especially extra virgin, is rich in Mono-unsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, compounds sensitive to their environment.

Poor conservation can lead to:

• A loss of aromas

• A decrease in antioxidants

• An alteration of taste (rancion)

In other words, even excellent oil can become mediocre if it is poorly preserved.

The 3 enemies of olive oil

The light

The light, especially UV rays, accelerates the oxidation of the oil. It is for this reason that quality oils are often conditioned in dark bottles.

The heat

A temperature too high modifies the chemical structure of the oil and accelerates its aging. An oil stored near a heat source will lose rapidly.

The air

At each opening, the oil comes into contact with oxygen, which promotes its oxidation. The more open a bottle is open, the more quickly it degrades.

Good practices for keeping its olive oil

To preserve all the qualities of your oil, some simple gestures are enough.

It is recommended to keep your oil in a cool place, ideally between 14 and 18 degrees. A closet away from light is usually the perfect place.

The choice of the container is also essential. A dark glass bottle or a metal can limits exposure to light. Conversely, transparent bottles are to be avoided.

Also remember to close your bottle after each use to limit contact with air.

How long can we keep an olive oil?

Unlike the wine, olive oil does not borrect with time.

In optimal conditions, it retains all its qualities for about 12 months after harvest. Beyond 18 months, she remains consumable, but gradually loses her aromas and benefits.

That's why it is advisable to privilege recent oils and not store them too long.

Pro Tip: Buy in small quantities

A frequent error is to buy large amounts of oil to save money.

In reality, it is better to buy Smaller containers, in order to consume an oil always fresh. This makes it possible to take full advantage of its taste and nutritional qualities.

Conclusion

Well maintain its olive oil is as important as it is choosing it.

By protecting it from light, heat and air, you preserve:

• his aromas

• YOUR BENEFITS

• its overall quality

-> To go further, you can consult our complete guide on How to choose a quality olive oil