General

In a July 2026 study, researchers at UC Davis tested a wide variety of products whose packaging claimed to contain only pure avocado oil. The reality, however, was that 89% of the processed foods tested contained other oils – some of which were rancid or adulterated.  In fact, of the products tested, “93% of chips, 71% of mayonnaises and 100% of salad dressings labeled as authentic avocado oil contained other oils.” In contrast, only 1 out of 20 olive oil-labelled processed foods failed their purity test.   While the olive oil market has been around for quite some time, the avocado oil industry is both relatively new and underregulated. To really understand the current state...

Imagine you enter the olive oil isle at the grocery store. You’re instantly thrown aback by the wide range of options and prices: How do you choose which bottle will keep your olive oil freshest, longest? The answer lies in paying special attention to the packaging.   The ideal container should be made of a material that can shield your olive oil from light and oxygen as much as possible, ensuring that you’re getting the taste, nutrition, and freshness you paid for.   Unlike other cooking oils, extra virgin olive oil is like fruit juice: squeezed fresh and bottled quickly to preserve...

When you pick up a bottle of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), you might have noticed some labels proudly boasting "early harvest." It sounds appealing, but what does it actually mean?  Let’s explore what early harvest means, why it makes a difference and why it's worth considering the next time you're at the store—even if it comes with a higher price tag.  What Is Early Harvest Olive Oil?  Typically, olive harvesting season runs from October to December. Early harvest oils are made from olives picked at the very start of the season, usually around early October.   It may not...

Understanding the differences between claims, like sustainable, and certifications, like organic or regenerative organic, can help you make choices that make a real difference every time you shop.