There is often some confusion about Olive Oils shelf life and the most optimal ways to store it. In this article we will help answer those questions to ensure you are able to keep your olive oils for as long as possible.
How long does olive oil last?
Olive Oil’s main component is a fruit, the Olive, so like any other fruit it does indeed have a limit before it turns bitter and unpleasant. The good news is that Olive Oils shelf life is much longer than the average product and some Olive Oils can last up to 18-24 months before becoming unappetising.
However, Extra Virgin Olive Oil tends to last a shorter period, usually around 12-18 months. The reason for this is that unlike refined oils, EVOO has no additives or preservatives to slow down the oxidising process once opened. EVOO is made from 100% natural ingredients, and as most natural ingredients they tend to have a set amount of time before they lose their delicious flavour.
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How to store your Olive Oil?
As mentioned above one of the catalysts to Olive Oils expiration is the process of oxidisation, this of course is inevitable once the bottle is opened, as oxidisation occurs when oxygen comes in contact with the Oil, thus in turn speeding up the breakdown of the fat molecules.
Therefore, be careful once finished with an Oil not to leave the cap off for too long, as the more oxygen that reaches it the quicker the oxidisation process will occur.
Moreover, light and heat are also major catalysts for the aging of Oil. This means is it imperative that you try and store your Olive Oil in a darker room where no direct sunlight may encounter it. Experts claim the optimal temperature for an Olive Oil is 55 – 60 ° F, however storing it at a room temperature of 70 ° F would be fine, just be careful on hotter days to not leave the Oil out for too long.
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When does olive oil go bad?
Most Olive Oils will come with some form of best before date, however if not there are obvious signs that will make it apparent as to whether your Oil is no longer of use.
The main clue will be the taste, an expired Olive Oil usually tastes a lot more bitter and acidic than normal, if you have the feeling it’s almost gone sour then you know it’s time to get rid of it.
The smell: Give the Olive Oil a good smell, much like when fruit has gone rotten Olive Oil will usually leave a somewhat rancid Odor once expired, some have likened the smell to that of crayons.
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Is it Dangerous to consume expired Olive Oil?
Don’t worry; consuming expired Oil will not be bad for your health and won’t make you ill or unwell; it just won’t taste very nice and will leave your meals with a funny aftertaste.
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