What are the mistakes to avoid when looking for a high-end EVO oil?
Do not read well and interpret the information on the label.
If we are looking for a high-end EVO oil, there are a number of key information to check carefully within the label. Let's see what they are.
1. At the very least, we must first ensure that the sales denomination EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is shown.
2. Given that, as we have already said in previous posts, this is a necessary but not sufficient condition, I personally tend to discard all those oils that have labels that describe that the oils are produced with olives or blends of oils from European or non-EU community. I choose them only when I am looking for some oil with sensory defects. When instead I focus on quality I choose oils that, for example, show 100% ITALIAN or have PGI / PDO marks on the label.
3. Another very important aspect is to verify that the OLIVE HARVEST CAMPAIGN is indicated as it tells us when the oil was produced. If this information is not present, the oil could be from past years.
4. Last, but not least, is to check the BEST BEFORE date which in my opinion should not be more than 12-18 months from the date of production (and NOT from the date of packaging), as oil is a product to be consumed as fresh as possible.
In the next post, as part of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Experience, we'll share another mistake to avoid looking for a premium EVO Oil.
