Authentic EVOO: Top Tips, Brands & Trusted Certifications

Struggling to find genuine extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)? 

In this shopping guide, discover the key factors to look for and certifications to trust when shopping for authentic EVOO. Last week, you learned how to "Spot Genuine EVOO: Unveiling the Truth Behind Counterfeits." Here's a quick and easy guide:

What Matters in EVOO

1. Harvest Date: Choose EVOO within 24 months of harvest for optimal freshness [1].
2. Ignore Buzzwords: "Fresh pressed," "cold pressed," and "Non-GMO" labels can be misleading [2].
3. Steer Clear of Blends: Avoid labels like "pure," "light," and "virgin" that may indicate blending [2].

 Trusted Certifications

1. COOC: California Olive Oil Council ensures EVOO quality through rigorous testing [3].
2. PDO: European Commission Protected Designation of Origin Seal guarantees adherence to strict specifications [4]. Look for the red and gold seal (shown below). The blue and gold seal isn't completely authentic.
3. Australian Olive Association: Regular chemical and taste testing for regional EVOO [5].
4. EVA: Extra Virgin Alliance verifies EVOO quality through chemical and sensory parameters [6].

Avoid certifications that lack transparency or allow blends, such as USDA Organic, CDFA, EU, and Olive Oil Commission of California.

Preserving EVOO Quality

1. Opt for smaller, dark-colored bottles to minimize exposure to light and air [7].
2. Store away from heat sources in a cool, dark place; do not refrigerate [7].

Where to Buy

1. Local grocery stores for COOC-approved or Australian-certified brands like Cobram Estate.
2. Olive Oil Lovers for various global EVOO options, sorted by region and polyphenol content.

Remember, authentic EVOO offers unparalleled health benefits and taste. Shop wisely to savor the real deal.

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Updated from original post April 1, 2022

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References:

1. European Food Research and Technology. "Characteristics of authentic extra virgin olive oils." 2018.
2. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. "Olive oil quality and authenticity: a review of current EU legislation, standards, relevant methods of analyses, their drawbacks and perspectives." 2015.
3. California Olive Oil Council. "COOC Seal Certified Oils."
4. European Commission. "Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)."
5. Australian Olive Association. "Certification."
6. Extra Virgin Alliance. "EVA Certification."
7. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. "Olive oil quality and authenticity: a review of current EU legislation, standards, relevant methods of analyses, their drawbacks and perspectives." 2015.