Look After Your Olive Oil By Storing It Properly
Summary
- Avoiding excessive exposure to heat, light and oxygen are the best ways to protect the integrity of a quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Extra virgin olive oil should be stored in a dark bottle – preferably glass or stainless steel.
- The ideal temperature for storing extra virgin olive oil is room temperature (around 60-70°F or 15-21°C).
Contents
- Keep Your Extra Virgin Olive Oil Fresh and Flavourful with These Expert Tips
- The Most Common Mistake In Storing Your Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- What Vessel Should You Store Your Olive Oil In?
- Understanding Why Light Degrades Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Other Myths About Looking After Your Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Keep Your Olive Oil Fresh and Flavorful with These Expert Tips
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a kitchen staple for home cooks, food enthusiasts, and health-conscious individuals alike. Its rich flavor and numerous health benefits make it a prized ingredient in many households.
However, to maintain its quality and taste, storing extra virgin olive oil correctly is essential. This guide will walk you through the best practices for storing your extra virgin olive oil to keep it fresh and flavorful.
The Most Common Mistake In Storing Your Extra Virgin Olive Oil
One of the most common mistakes people make when storing extra virgin olive oil is exposing it to light. Light can significantly degrade the quality of your olive oil, causing it to lose its flavor and nutritional value. Many people unknowingly store their bottles on kitchen counters or anywhere that light can reach them.
According to a recent article in Apartmenttherapy.com, the most common mistake made by Olive Oil lovers is to store your bottle of olive oil incorrectly.
In a new podcast interview, first covered by HuffPost U.K., olive oil distributor Elizabeth Berger how small factors can change the integrity of your olive oil and potentially cause it to spoil.
Among the key advice offered is to avoid storing your extra virgin olive oil next to your stove or cooker and opt for a cool, dark cupboard instead.
Berger said:
“You want to keep it where the temperature is constant, so away from the stove, away from a window where the temperature will fluctuate quite a lot.”
Ideally, you want to avoid extra virgin olive oil’s three enemies of light, heat and oxygen to preserve its integrity, taste and health benefits for as long as possible.
What Vessel Should You Store Your Olive Oil In?
What vessel you choose to store your extra virgin olive oil in is equally important.
Choosing the right container for your extra virgin olive oil is crucial. The material and design of the vessel can significantly impact the oil’s quality over time.
According to the article in Apartmenttherapy.com;
Dark-hued glass bottles, or stainless steel containers (avoid iron or copper containers, which can react with the oil) are best, as any light getting into lighter-coloured bottles can make your olive oil go bad.
If your olive oil comes in a plastic bottle, you might want to consider buying a small reusable bottle like a glass cruet to transfer it into, as chemicals from plastic can potentially leech into your oil.
Many people opt for plastic containers for convenience, but glass is a much better option. Plastic can leach chemicals into the oil, especially if it’s stored for long periods. Glass, particularly dark-coloured glass, is inert and does not interact with the oil. Dark glass also provides additional protection against light.
Stainless Steel Options
Stainless steel containers are another excellent choice for storing EVOO. They are durable, do not react with the oil, and often come with airtight seals that help preserve freshness. Stainless steel also offers the added benefit of being opaque, thereby providing natural light protection.
Ceramic and Other Materials
Ceramic containers can also be good for storing olive oil, provided they are lined with a non-reactive glaze. Unlined ceramics can absorb the oil and potentially introduce contaminants. Always ensure that any ceramic or alternative material is food-safe and designed for oil storage.
So, if you’ve been thinking about reorganizing the area next to your stove, this might be the perfect time to find the exact right kitchen cabinet to put a lazy Susan in to have your other cooking oils, regularly used spices, and olive oil in an aesthetically pleasing cruet. It might be one extra step to take out your olive oil when you’re cooking, but it’ll be totally worth it.
Understanding Why Light Degrades Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is particularly sensitive to light due to its high polyphenol content. Polyphenols are antioxidants that give olive oil its health benefits and robust flavor. When exposed to light, these compounds break down, leading to a loss in both flavor and health benefits. Understanding this can help you make informed decisions about where to store your olive oil.
Light exposure accelerates the oxidation process, which is the primary cause of rancidity in olive oil. When olive oil oxidizes, it not only loses its delightful taste but also its nutritional value. This degradation happens more quickly than you might think, so even short-term exposure can start to affect the oil’s quality.
Avoiding Light Exposure
To protect your olive oil from light, always store it in a dark place. Consider using a cupboard or pantry that is away from direct sunlight. If you must store it in the kitchen, choose a location that is shaded and far from any windows or light sources. Taking these steps will help ensure that your olive oil remains as fresh and flavorful as possible.
Other Myths About Looking After Your Extra Virgin Olive Oil
There are several myths about storing and caring for olive oil that can mislead consumers and lead to suboptimal storage practices.
Refrigeration Myth
One common myth is that olive oil should be refrigerated. While refrigeration can slow down the oxidation process, it can also cause the oil to become cloudy and solidify, making it difficult to use. Instead, store your olive oil at room temperature in a dark, cool place.
The Temperature Myth
Some believe that olive oil needs to be stored at very low temperatures to keep it fresh. In reality, room temperature (around 60-70°F or 15-21°C) is ideal. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can negatively affect the oil’s flavor and consistency.
Shelf Life Misconceptions
Another misconception is that olive oil lasts indefinitely. Although extra virgin olive oil has a relatively long shelf life compared to other oils, it is still perishable. Typically, Extra virgin olive oil is best consumed within 18-24 months of production. Always check the best-by date and try to use the oil within a few months of opening it for the freshest flavour.
Conclusion
Storing your extra virgin olive oil correctly is essential for maintaining its exceptional quality and flavor. By avoiding light exposure, choosing the right storage vessel, and debunking common myths, you can ensure that your EVOO remains fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
If you’re eager to learn more about the best practices for storing and using your favorite kitchen staples, consider subscribing to our newsletter or booking a consultation with one of our culinary experts. Your next culinary masterpiece awaits!
