Olive Oil — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Choose olive oil that is sold in dark glass bottles to protect it from light, which can degrade its quality. The oil should be a vibrant green to golden yellow color, indicating good quality.

Avoid olive oil that smells like putty or has a greasy texture, as these are signs it has oxidized. Cloudy olive oil or bottles with sediment at the bottom should be avoided, as these characteristics often indicate improper storage or aging.

Olive oil should be stored in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. A tightly sealed bottle helps maintain its flavor and quality. Properly stored, olive oil can last up to two years.

Exposure to heat and light can cause olive oil to degrade and lose its nutritional value. Avoid storing it near windows or heat sources. Use a dark-colored bottle to protect it from light and ensure it remains fresh.

Olive oil can last for 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it is best to consume it within 6-12 months for optimal quality.

Leftover olive oil can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, olive oil is a staple for cooking, drizzling, and dressing. It’s perfect for sautéing vegetables, grilling meats, or making salad dressings and marinades. Olive oil can also be used to add richness to sauces and dips.

Beyond cooking, olive oil has numerous uses in personal care and household applications. It can be used as a natural moisturizer for the skin, helping to hydrate and soothe dryness. Olive oil can also be used as a hair treatment to add shine and reduce frizz or as a makeup remover. Additionally, olive oil is great for conditioning wooden furniture and cutting boards, helping to maintain their appearance and durability. It can also be used to polish stainless steel and other metal surfaces, leaving them shiny and free of fingerprints.