Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest grade of olive oil, made from the first cold pressing of olives using only mechanical means — no heat, chemicals, or refining involved. This gentle extraction retains the oil’s natural antioxidants like oleocanthal, oleacein, and vitamin E, as well as its peppery, fruity aroma and taste.
But more than taste, EVOO is linked with:
- Heart health – via LDL cholesterol reduction and improved endothelial function
- Anti-inflammatory effects – thanks to oleocanthal, a natural COX inhibitor
- Protective antioxidant action – helping reduce oxidative stress
A meta-analysis published by the International Journal of Clinical Practice showed that 10–50 mL/day of EVOO significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure (–1.44 mmHg on average) [1].
The Hype Around Extra Virgin Olive Oil
From Greek salads to Indian stir-frys, EVOO has become a buzzword for healthy fats. Thanks to the popularity of the Mediterranean diet, EVOO is now viewed as a kitchen essential with superfood status. Indian consumers, especially health-conscious urban millennials, are swapping out traditional oils and ghee for EVOO.
But here’s the catch: not everything labeled “extra virgin” is truly extra virgin. A 2023 global raid exposed widespread EVOO fraud in Europe, where low-grade or blended oils were sold under premium labels [2].
Here’s the problem: many olive oils in the Indian market don’t meet EVOO standards. Either the oil has been:
- Chemically-refined
- Blended with lower-grade oils
- Stored in conditions that degrade quality
- Mislabeled for marketing
And unfortunately, you can’t always tell just by taste or smell. That’s where independent lab testing becomes crucial.
FAQ Title
What does "extra virgin olive oil" mean?
Extra virgin olive oil is made solely by mechanically crushing olives without heat or chemicals. It must meet strict chemical (acidity < 0.8%) and sensory standards to qualify as EVOO.
How should I store EVOO to keep it fresh?
Store in a cool, dark place—ideally in dark glass or stainless steel—away from light, heat, and moisture. Once opened, use within 2 months or transfer to a smaller bottle to minimize oxidation.
Can I cook with extra virgin olive oil?
Yes! EVOO is excellent for most cooking—including sautéing, baking, and frying—up to about 200 °C. Its stability and health benefits hold up well below that temperature.
Check out unbiased lab-tested ratings of “Extra Virgin Olive Oil” on Unbox Health along with their detailed lab reports.
Always check independent ratings before making a purchase. Unbox Health help you cut through the marketing hype and choose the best oil for your health and your kitchen.
About Unbox Health
Unbox Health: India’s First Ratings Platform for Packaged Foods and Health Supplement Tired of biased reviews and never-ending claims? At Unbox Health, every product is tested at multiple premium FSSAI-approved NABL-accredited international labs – 100% independently, transparently, and without any brand involvement.
- 100% Transparency: All lab reports are publicly published.
- Zero Hidden Agendas: Products are market-bought with no brand involvement.
- Accurate Testing: Samples tested at up to 3 premium international labs
- Actionable Ratings: Based on Label Accuracy, Toxicity & Nutritional Profile.
Head over to Unbox Health and let the data guide your consumption choices.
References:
Schwingshackl L, et al. Olive oil in the prevention of chronic disease: The Third International Conference. Int J Clin Pract. 2023.
The Guardian. Millions of litres of fake olive oil seized in European raids. 2023.