How to Choose Quality Olive Oil
Your complete guide to selecting authentic, high-quality extra virgin olive oil and avoiding common pitfalls.
Key Quality Indicators
What to Look For
- Dark glass or tin container to protect from light
- Harvest date within the last 12-18 months
- Protected designation of origin (PDO/DOP) certification
- Third-party certification (e.g., California Olive Oil Council)
- “First cold pressed” or “Cold extracted” designation
Red Flags
- Clear or plastic bottles
- No harvest date or extremely old date
- Unusually low prices for “extra virgin” oil
- Generic or unclear origin information
- Light or “pure” olive oil labeled as extra virgin
Beware of Fraud
Olive oil is one of the most commonly adulterated food products. Some producers mix extra virgin olive oil with lower-grade oils or even other types of oils. Always buy from reputable sources and look for certification marks.
Proper Storage
Even the highest quality olive oil can degrade if not stored properly. Follow these guidelines to maintain quality:
Cool and Dark
Store in a cool pantry away from direct light and heat sources
Sealed Tight
Keep bottles tightly sealed when not in use
Avoid Heat
Don't store near the stove or other heat sources
Use Within 6 Months
Once opened, try to use within 6 months for optimal quality
Recommended Brands
Premium Options
California Olive Ranch Reserve
Premium California-grown olives, cold-pressed within hours of harvest.
Cobram Estate Ultra Premium
Award-winning Australian producer known for consistency.
Frantoi Cutrera Primo DOP
Sicilian excellence with protected designation of origin.
Castillo de Canena
Family-owned Spanish estate with centuries of tradition.
Value Options
California Olive Ranch Everyday
Reliable quality at an accessible price point.
Kirkland Signature Organic
Costco's private label offering excellent value.
Trader Joe's Greek Kalamata
100% Greek Kalamata olives with PDO certification.
Lucini Premium Select
Lucini's premium select is a great introduction to high-end olive oils.
Note: Quality can vary by harvest year and specific batch. Always check the harvest date and certification marks regardless of brand reputation.