COOC: Authentic Extra Virgin Olive Oil Certification

Posted by Olivia on Mon, August 01, 2011

Did you know that over 2/3 of imported olive oil producers make false claims of their oils being “extra virgin?” Researchers at UC-Davis found out this shockingly high statistic last year after running lab tests of common commercial olive oils found at the grocery store.

What can you do to ensure the olive oil you are buying is truly extra virgin? Look for the label of certification.

Created and certified by the California Olive Oil Council (COOC), the official Seal Certification guarantees that your olive oil is extra virgin, and by that, it means that your oil meets the following qualifications:

·         Oil is extracted mechanically, without excessive heat or chemicals

·         Oil contains less than .5% free fatty acid content

·         Oil has positive taste elements, which are tested in a blind tasting by an approved panel

What are these “positive” taste attributes of a good olive oil? They range from fruity (which includes buttery, floral, and aromatic qualities) to bitter (which are pleasingly tart, acrid, or sharp) to pungent (those wonderful spicy, peppery, tingling qualities that linger in the mouth and throat.

We’re pleased to let you know that our olive oils are indeed certified by the COOC! With The Olive Press Olive Oils, you are guaranteed authentic, fresh extra virgin olive oil—every time, no exceptions!

Support extra virgin olive oil producers by looking for the COOC label, and as always, by supporting your local farmers and sellers. We’re here to give you a better product with results you can taste. Stay tuned to our Blog for updates on California olive oil standards, news, and cooking how-tos.