How to Store Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Complete Guide to Proper Storage
The Importance of Proper Extra Virgin Olive Oil Storage
Extra virgin olive oil is a living product, rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and aromatic compounds that determine its quality and health benefits. Improper storage can quickly compromise these precious characteristics, turning an excellent oil into a mediocre product. That's why at Frantoio Ottaviani, we consider it essential to guide you in properly storing our Canino DOP oil.
The Three Enemies of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1. Light
Exposure to light, especially direct sunlight, triggers photo-oxidation processes that degrade chlorophyll and carotenoids, altering the oil's color, flavor, and nutritional properties. For this reason, our oil is packaged in dark glass bottles or tins.
2. Heat
High temperatures accelerate oxidation and rancidity. The ideal storage temperature is between 57°F and 64°F (14°C and 18°C). Absolutely avoid storing oil near stovetops, ovens, or other heat sources.
3. Air
Contact with oxygen initiates oxidative processes that deteriorate the oil over time. After each use, always carefully reseal the bottle and choose sizes appropriate to your consumption to prevent the oil from remaining too long in the bottle.
Ideal Storage Containers
- Stainless steel: The best material overall, completely impermeable to light and air
- Dark glass: Excellent light protection, allows you to check the oil level
- Tin: Excellent barrier against light and oxygen, ideal for large quantities
- Ceramic: Good protection, traditional and decorative
Avoid: clear glass bottles, plastic containers (which can leach substances into the oil), and any container that doesn't guarantee an airtight seal.
Where to Store Oil at Home
The ideal location is a cool, dark pantry, away from windows and heat sources. If you don't have a suitable pantry, a closed cabinet in the coolest area of your kitchen can be a good alternative. Avoid the refrigerator: low temperatures cause the oil to solidify and can alter its organoleptic characteristics.
How Long Does Extra Virgin Olive Oil Last?
A quality extra virgin olive oil, when properly stored, maintains its optimal characteristics for 12-18 months from the bottling date. However, to fully enjoy its aromatic profile and benefits, we recommend consuming it within 12 months of pressing. Newly pressed oil offers the maximum intensity of aromas and flavors.
Signs of Deterioration: How to Recognize Oil That Has Gone Bad
Learn to recognize these warning signs:
- Rancid odor: Notes of old walnuts, wax, crayons, or smoked meat
- Off flavor: Metallic, musty, vinegary taste, or unpleasantly excessive bitterness
- Altered color: Loss of vibrant green-gold tones, tendency toward dull yellow
- Excessively oily consistency: The oil appears thicker and stickier than normal
If you notice one or more of these signs, the oil is no longer suitable for raw consumption. You can possibly use it for frying or dispose of it properly.
Practical Tips from Frantoio Ottaviani
After years of experience producing Canino DOP extra virgin olive oil, here are our suggestions:
- Purchase quantities proportional to your actual consumption
- Choose smaller formats if you use little oil
- Transfer to smaller bottles as you consume, to reduce contact with air
- Note the opening date on the bottle
- Periodically taste the oil to verify its freshness
Preserving the Quality of Our Territory
Frantoio Ottaviani's Canino DOP extra virgin olive oil captures the aromas and flavors of Tuscia. Storing it properly means respecting the work of our olive groves, the tradition of our mill, and bringing the excellence of our territory to your table every day.
Discover our selection of extra virgin olive oils and bring home the authentic taste of Tuscia, to store and enjoy at its best.
