What’s in Your EVOO?

Some EVOO May Not be Genuine

For many, extra virgin olive oil is a kitchen staple. The rich taste of olives (yummy!) combined with health benefits make it a natural for cooking, baking and as a finishing oil. But do you know what’s really in your EVOO?

Unfortunately, some EVOO may not be the real thing. Forbes contributor Cathy Huyghe reported that many of the olive oils many of us use may contain less true olive oil than believed. Some may contain other less expensive oils and colorants. And currently, there isn’t anything in place to prevent misleading labeling.

American author, Tom Mueller, published a well-received nonfiction book Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil. The book examines this famous and ancient oil from a variety of angles.  His blog, Truth in Olive, advises consumers on purchasing olive oil and connects them with reputable and skilled oil makers who deliver what they promise.

In his book and in subsequent public appearances, he has championed the California-based olive oil distributor, Veronica Foods. Veronica Foods is a leading supplier of olive oil themed stores, including The Leaning Ladder.

Become an Educated Consumer

Leaning Ladder Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oils

Here are a few ways to determine if your extra virgin olive oil is the real deal:

1. True EVOO is not cheap. Be aware of any EVOO that costs less than $10/liter
2. Read the label. True EVOO will have a harvest or crush date on the bottle or the FUSTI
3. Be aware of misleading labels. If it says “light,” “pure,” “or “blend,” it’s not pure EVOO.
4. Purchase EVOO in dark bottles only. It prevents the oil from oxidation.

At Leaning Ladder, all our FUSTIs have the “crush” date on them. All of our fused and infused oils are made from one of our single varietal olive oils.

The oils are harvested from both the northern and southern hemispheres, which means we continually receive only the freshest oils. We recommend using the oils within two years of the “crush” date.

Stop by and Taste Test

Look for harvest or “crush” dates on EVOO to ensure authenticity and freshness

We invite you to stop by the Leaning Ladder to taste our freshly harvested extra virgin olive oils or pick up a copy of Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil. ; we’re always available to answer any questions you may have.

See you soon!

Your friends,

Susan and Bridget