Things To Know About Olive Oil

Most people are familiar with olive oil and often use it, either for cooking or other things. Even so, there is nothing wrong with revealing six must-know facts about olive oil, as reported by Shine! (19/10) below.

1. What does 'extra virgin' mean?

The term 'extra virgin' is used to refer to very high quality olive oil. First, it can be seen from the acidity level of the oil which is less than 0.8 percent. The meaning of acidity here is not the same as the acidity of vinegar or lemon, but rather the level of chemicals in the oil. The acidity of the oil will determine the taste.

Second, the 'extra virgin' means oil obtained through a purely mechanical process, such as smoothing fruit olives to pick up the oil. While oil is usually obtained using chemicals to extract and filter the oil.

Research suggests that Greek Olive Oil is extremely beneficial for the heart. It reduces inflammation and boosts HDL (good cholesterol) while also reducing LDL (bad cholesterol). The polyphenols found in olive oil help to prevent LDL oxidation, which could be a cause of atherosclerosis and consequently, increase the chance of having a stroke or heart attacks. Olive oil is also effective in reducing blood pressure and has been shown to decrease the need for blood pressure medications in some research studies. Olive oil should not be used as a substitute for prescription medication.

Third, the term 'extra virgin' also guarantees that the quality and taste of this oil is impeccable, flawless.

2. The feeling of 'burning'

When drinking high-quality olive oil you will often feel a little 'burn' in the back of the throat. This is a good thing. Researchers explain that the taste is an indication of the healthy polyphenol content in the oil.

3. Oil color is not important

Olive oil with good quality can be golden to dark yellow almost greenish. This depends on the type of olives used.

4. Quality olive oil

The difference between a good quality olive oil and a cheap one is in terms of taste. Low-quality olive oil usually doesn't even pass the standard olive oil test. Usually, poor quality olive oil uses chemicals to remove odor, taste, and pigment from the oil. Although harmless, this actually reduces the distinctive taste of olive oil.

5. Do not choose low-quality olive oil

Although the chemicals used in olive oil are harmless, but that does not mean you have to choose olive oil that is cheap and of poor quality. In addition to the distinct taste, the nutritional content of low-quality olive oil is less, if not almost non-existent.

6. Read labels

Olive oil labels sometimes do not write the truth. It would be better if you already know a brand that is proven to be good and reliable. Otherwise, there is no guarantee that what you are buying is good quality olive oil. However, there are a few things that can help you. Take a look at where the oil-producing countries come from. Good quality olive oil often comes from Spain, Greece, or Italy. Also, check the validity period, and the acidity level (should be less than 0.8 percent). Watch carefully, and don't be fooled.