As the winter season arrives, it's essential to pay close attention to how you store and preserve your olive oil. Olive oil, with its rich flavor and numerous health benefits, is a staple in many households. However, it can be sensitive to changes in temperature and light, making proper storage crucial to maintain its quality and flavor. Keep reading for our favorite tips and tricks to maintaining your olive oil’s quality during the colder months! 

Choose the Right Container

When selecting a container for your olive oil, opt for a completely opaque glass container. Protecting olive oil from exposure to light is essential as light causes oxidation and deterioration of the oil's quality. Clear or plastic containers should be avoided, as they offer little protection against light and plastic degrades the quality of olive oil. Our Vitality and Joy Extra-Virgin Olive Oils come in opaque glass containers to preserve the high quality of our olive oils. 

Keep It Cool and Dark

Storing your olive oil in a cool, dark place is essential. The ideal temperature range for olive oil storage is between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C). During the winter, be cautious of extreme cold temperatures. While olive oil doesn't freeze easily, very cold temperatures can cause the oil to become cloudy or even solidify temporarily. To prevent this, avoid placing it near windows or outside in colder conditions.

Avoid Moisture

Store your olive oil away from areas with high humidity or moisture. Water can seep into the bottle and promote rancidity. A dry and cool pantry or cupboard is an ideal location.

Check the Harvest Date

Olive oil has a shelf life, and while it doesn't spoil like perishable foods, its flavor and health benefits can deteriorate over time. Check the bottle for the "harvest" date, and use it within 18-24 months of the harvest date. Our olive oils have the harvest date on each bottle so you can be sure your olive oil is fresh. 

Olive oil is a delicious ingredient that is essential to every kitchen. Proper storage and preservation are key to maintaining its quality and flavor, especially during the winter months when temperature fluctuations can be a concern. By following these steps you can ensure your olive oil maintains its quality and taste. From our kitchen to yours!