The Lucangeli family has cultivated olive trees for generations in the sun-drenched lands of Italy. For them, olive oil is much more than a simple culinary ingredient; it's a symbol of their land and their artisanal expertise. But to preserve all the richness of their extra virgin olive oils, it's essential to know the proper storage rules. In this article, we reveal all our secrets for preserving the aromas and nutritional quality of your olive oil.
The silent enemies of extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is a delicate oil, sensitive to various factors that can alter its aromas and nutritional qualities. Among these silent enemies, light, oxygen, and temperature are the most prominent.
Light: the primary factor in degradation
As olive oil producers, we pay particular attention to light. It can have a significant impact on the quality of the oil. When oil is exposed to direct sunlight or an intense light source, it can undergo accelerated oxidation, leading to an alteration of its aromas and a loss of its nutritional qualities. To prevent this, we recommend storing your olive oil in a cool, dark place.
Our organic green fruity olive oil , with its intense herbaceous notes, is particularly sensitive to light. That's why we bottle it in dark glass that filters UV rays and preserves its powerful aromas.
Oxygen and temperature: other threats
Besides light, oxygen and temperature are also factors to consider when storing your extra virgin olive oil. When the oil comes into contact with oxygen, it can undergo oxidation, which alters its aroma and quality. Furthermore, exposure to high temperatures can also accelerate the oxidation process. It is therefore important to tightly close your bottle of oil and store it in a cool place.
Our organic, ripe, fruity olive oil , with its mild and floral flavors, requires special care to preserve its delicate nature. Once opened, it should be consumed quickly to retain its full finesse.
The golden rules for optimal preservation
Now that you know the main enemies of your extra virgin olive oil, here are our tips for optimal storage.
Choosing the right container and the ideal location
To preserve the aromas of your olive oil, choosing the right container is essential. Opt for dark glass or ceramic bottles to protect the oil from light. Avoid plastic containers, which can alter the oil's properties. As for storage, choose a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and any heat source.
Our 200ml olive oil pack is specially designed for optimal preservation. The three 200ml bottles limit exposure to air and preserve the freshness of each variety for longer than a larger format.
Temperature and storage time
To ensure optimal preservation of your extra virgin olive oil, it is recommended to store it at a temperature between 15 and 20°C. Avoid temperature fluctuations, which can accelerate the oxidation process. Regarding shelf life, most extra virgin olive oils can be kept for up to 18 months after bottling. However, to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas, we advise consuming your oil within 6 months of opening.
Our bergamot-infused olive oil , a silver medalist at the 2023 Épicures awards, reveals its full aromatic complexity when stored under ideal conditions. Its lemony notes are best preserved at a stable, cool temperature.
Signs of spoiled oil
Despite your best efforts, your olive oil may still spoil. Here are some signs that your oil may be off: a dark color, a rancid or bitter taste, an unpleasant odor, or a thick texture. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard your oil and buy fresh.
For enthusiasts looking to build up a reserve, our limited-edition jeroboam of olive oil offers an elegant solution. This exceptional 3-liter format allows for long-term storage while preserving the oil's quality thanks to its specially designed packaging.
Specific advice depending on the type of oil
Fruity and delicate oils
If you enjoy mild and fruity olive oils, be aware that they are particularly sensitive to light and oxidation. To best preserve them, we recommend following the advice mentioned above and consuming them within 6 months of opening.
Our 1L mild olive oil is perfect for everyday family use. Its one-liter size offers excellent value for money while ensuring optimal freshness thanks to its rapid rotation in your kitchen.
Full-bodied and flavorful oils
Full-bodied and flavorful olive oils are more robust and can be stored for longer. However, it is important to follow the storage guidelines mentioned earlier to prevent any alteration of their aromas.
Oils with more pronounced characteristics, such as those from early-harvested olives, tolerate variations better but still deserve special attention to preserve their aromatic intensity.
Finally, to preserve the aromas of your extra virgin olive oil, it is essential to protect it from silent enemies such as light, oxygen, and temperature. By following our storage advice, you can fully enjoy the flavors and nutritional qualities of our olive oil, a true symbol of our Italian terroir.
Each drop of olive oil tells the story of a land, a family, and a know-how passed down through generations. By taking care to store it properly, you honor this culinary heritage and ensure you savor all the richness of the Mediterranean on your plate.
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