How long does extra virgin olive oil last?
Better the old or the new oil?
Unlike wine, oil does not improve over time. The old men said “New oil, old wine” and they were completely right. Over time, the oil loses its characteristics. If well preserved, degradation is very slow, but this does not always happen. It is therefore good to indicate the oil campaign on the label to allow the consumer to know when it was produced. It is a good rule to consume the oil within 12/18 months of pressing.
Is expired oil bad for your health?
Extra virgin olive oil is not a product that expires like, for example, milk. So an oil consumed after the expiration does not harm health, but it certainly no longer has the initial characteristics. The standard states that the expiry date, indicated on the label, must be 18 months from bottling. This is why it is important to also indicate the oil campaign. It is information that traces us back to the milling period which is the most important element of evaluation.
Can it be kept in the oil can?
Air accelerates the oxidation process. In the oil cruet (or in an open ampoule) it is not the best way to keep it. In addition, the oil absorbs odors, therefore it should be kept in a closed container. A 2014 law prohibits the use of oil cruets in restaurants and imposes the anti-topping cap.
Can it be kept in the refrigerator?
No, absolutely. It should be kept in a cool environment: the ideal temperature is 15/16 °. Below 10 ° it condenses (white balls form) and loses some characteristics. Avoid keeping the bottle or can near the stove. Sudden changes in temperature accelerate the degradation process. Do you know that olive oil can also be fried? Find more!
