When Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Expire?

Victoria Estrada 18.September.2023 0 comments

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is a popular and healthy ingredient for cooking, salad dressings, and dipping. But, how long can it last before it goes stale or rancid? This question often confuses many food lovers and it's understandable. Olive oil is an incredibly versatile ingredient, and it can be challenging to determine its expiry date by just looking at it. In this blog post, we'll delve deeper into the shelf life of EVOO and when you should dispose of it. So, let's get started!

What Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

Before we talk about the expiry of EVOO, it's essential to understand what it is. Extra virgin olive oil is made from cold-pressed olives and is free from any chemical additives or solvents. It's the highest quality of olive oil, with an acidity level of less than 0.8%. EVOO is the healthiest olive oil variety, and it's packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and other vital nutrients.

Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Expire?

Like all edible oils, EVOO has a shelf life, and it can go bad if not stored correctly. The good news is that EVOO has a relatively long shelf life compared to other oils, thanks to its high antioxidant content. Nevertheless, EVOO will eventually go rancid, and its quality and taste will degrade over time. The expiration of EVOO depends on various factors, such as the bottling date, storage conditions, and the quality of the oil.

How Long Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil Last?

Most EVOO bottles come with a best-by date, which is an estimate of how long the oil will retain its optimal quality and flavor. However, the best-by date isn't an indication of the oil's expiry date, and EVOO can still be consumed past the best-by date. Generally, EVOO can last up to 2 years from the time of bottling, provided it's stored away from heat, light, and air. Once opened, EVOO should be consumed within 1 year to ensure its best quality.

How to Tell If Extra Virgin Olive Oil Has Expired?

There are several signs you can look out for to tell if your EVOO has gone bad. One of the most noticeable signs is a rancid, stale smell, and a bitter or sour taste. Another indicator is the oil's color, as it may turn cloudy or darker over time. Exposure to heat, light, and air can also speed up the oil's oxidation process, leading to rancidity. Therefore, it's essential to store EVOO in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard.

What to Do With Expired Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

If your EVOO has gone bad or expired, don't pour it down the sink or trash it. Old EVOO can still be useful, depending on the degree of rancidity. For instance, you can use it to clean kitchen surfaces or as an ingredient in DIY beauty products such as hair masks or skin scrubs. Alternatively, you can dispose of it by recycling it in most cities. You can also reuse old EVOO by blending it with fresh oil to help mask the rancid taste.

In conclusion, extra virgin olive oil is a fantastic ingredient with a long shelf life. However, it's essential to store it correctly and consume it within the recommended time frame to avoid rancidity and loss of quality. The best-by date is only an estimate, and EVOO can still be useful past its date. Always look out for signs of rancidity, such as a stale smell, a bitter taste, and a darker color. Don't dispose of expired EVOO; instead, reuse it in DIY projects or recycle it. Enjoy cooking and using EVOO in moderation to enjoy its many health benefits.

Our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Recommendations:

Extra Virgen Olive Oil, Verde Puro, Spain, EVOO

Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Spain. Experience the taste of the Mediterranean. Our EVOO is made from the finest Spanish olives, cold-pressed to maintain the highest quality and flavor.

It is rich in flavor and packed with antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for cooking, dressing salads, and adding flavor to your dishes.

This EVOO is perfect for those looking for a healthy and tasty alternative to traditional cooking oils.

Perfect for any occasion, this oil is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So why wait? Add our premium extra virgin olive oil to your pantry today!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Lacrima Olea Millennial Trees

This single variety extra virgin olive oil from the Farga Milenaria variety is more than just an oil, it is a unique and flavorful experience.

With a millenary history, this olive oil provides a fresh and balanced flavor that enhances any dish. Its sweet yet spicy flavor is complemented by smooth and bitter tones, making it a unique and exclusive product.

This millenary olive oil has been recognized in prestigious international competitions, such as the IOC in London and Terraolivo (Israel).

However, due to limited and variable annual stocks, this EVOO is exclusive and available in limited quantities. There are years when the trees yield little or no olives, so production is not predictable.

Don't miss the opportunity to try this exceptional oil and experience the taste of history. Order now!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Lacrima Olea Picual, Spain, EVOO

Taste the unique flavours of extra virgin olive oil from Catalonia.

The fields of Picual olive trees are caressed by the Mediterranean breeze and the sun of the peninsula, providing an exquisite olive oil.

Cold processed using the latest methods to preserve the highest amount of antioxidants and nutrients, Lacrima Olea's Picual Olive Oil is an authentic treat.

It is ideal for salads, any type of dishes or, as the locals prefer it, spread directly on bread.