Olive oil
Organic Olive Oil: What It Means and Why It's Worth It
Contents
The word “organic” appears everywhere, but what exactly does it mean when we talk about organic olive oil? In this article we explain certification, how it differs from conventional oil and when it is worth choosing.
What is organic olive oil?
Organic (or “bio”) olive oil is made from olives grown without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilisers. The groves are managed with natural methods, such as organic fertiliser and natural pest control.
For an oil to be called organic, production must be certified by an accredited body and inspected every year. Without certification, the word “organic” on a label means nothing.
Organic vs conventional olive oil
The main difference is the way the olives are grown. Organic farming requires more manual work and yields can be lower. This is reflected slightly in the price, but the buyer gets a product with fewer chemical residues and more respect for the land.
Keep in mind: organic does not automatically mean “extra virgin”. A good oil needs two things: good olives and careful pressing.
Why families are choosing organic oil
The most common reasons are the wish for cleaner food, care for children, support for sustainable farming and natural flavour. Many restaurants and food shops are also looking for it for their menus and premium shelves.
How to recognise a trustworthy organic oil
- Look for the certification logo and code on the label.
- Check the producer and the country of origin.
- Choose dark glass bottles, which protect the oil from light.
- Look at the harvest year: the fresher, the better.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the answers to the most common questions about organic olive oil.
Is organic olive oil healthier?
Organic oil contains fewer pesticide residues, but its health benefits depend mainly on it being extra virgin and fresh. An old, badly stored organic oil is not a good choice.
Is organic olive oil more expensive?
Usually a little, because organic farming takes more work and produces lower yields. For many families the difference is justified by the quality.
How do I know the certification is genuine?
Look for the certification number on the label and ask the producer which body issued it. A serious producer will show it without hesitation.
Shkrela and the quality of our oil
Our oil comes from family-owned olive groves; the olives are hand-picked and cold-pressed within 24 hours. Browse our products and learn more about our quality awards.
If you run a shop or restaurant and need wholesale supply, find out how to become a distributor.
