Extra virgin olive oil is a unique food
Extra virgin olive oil is considered to be one of the healthiest oils in the world, and has a variety of well researched health benefits. It predominantly contains healthy monounsaturated fats as well as antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.
One of the most important benefits of extra virgin olive oil is that it supports heart health.*
Find out more about the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil has also been linked with improvements in a variety of other conditions, both on its own and as part of a Mediterranean diet. To learn more about the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil, visit the Olive Wellness Institute.
Cooking with extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is one of the most versatile oils to use in the kitchen, however there is a common misconception that you cannot cook with it, particularly at high temperatures. This is not the case – you can and should cook with EVOO. It is safe and healthy to use for everything from frying to roasting to baking and deep frying.
The smoke point of an oil is often thought to determine its stability; however this is a myth. Research has now shown that smoke point is not a good indicator of how stable an oil is. Instead, the fat profile and antioxidant content are better predictors. EVOO contains stable fats and antioxidants, making it the perfect choice for all at home cooking.
Along with being a highly stable oil, extra virgin olive oil has additional benefits when used for cooking. The antioxidants present in the oil can transfer to the food being cooked, whilst the oil also helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other food components. It also helps to make food taste better, facilitating the consumption of healthy foods like vegetables!