Jan 27th

Does Your Olive Oil Come in a Dark Bottle?

A diet rich in olive oil has been long recognized for its benefits in cardiovascular health, joint health, cancer prevention, skin and cognitive function due to its anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant properties.

But is there a difference among the array of pretty-shaped, fancy-labeled bottles at the grocery store?

It is a well known fact that all oils are susceptible to rancidity when exposed to air, light and/or heat. To minimize air contact with your oil, choose one in a glass bottle over a plastic one (plastic breathes more) and finish your oil relatively quickly (30-60 days). Purchasing oils in dark tinted bottles and keeping them in a dark cabinet will help minimize exposure to light. Make sure your olive oil is cold pressed, keep them in a cool place and be sure not to cook it over its smoke point, 375 degrees F.

You'll notice that almost all organic extra virgin olive oil come in very dark glass bottles. You'll also notice that most of these come with a hefty price tag. Whole Food's Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is yummy, affordable as rated here.

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  • Because oils are susceptible to rancidity when exposed to heat, it is important not to cook with an oil with a low smoke point and not to cook over an oil's smoke point - the temperature at which the oil starts to break down. At this point, the heat will cause oxidation in the oil, destroying the protective properties of the oil. Imagine the process of iron turning to rust and that playing out in your food and eventually damaging your cells. This would be counter-productive to eating good quality oils.

    Below is a list of oils and their smoke points. We've only listed those of unrefined oils; 'light' oils, 'refined' oils and oils from 'toasted seeds and nuts are heated which compromises the stability of the oil. We suggest eating mostly raw oils for maximum benefit.
  • Covering the entire surface area of your body, the integumentary system, aka, your skin, is the largest organ of your body. Whether you are deficient in essential fatty acids, antioxidants or just have poor circulation, your skin may not be getting adequate nutrients.


    Many of us use lotions to help deliver some of these nutrients and also to moisturize dry skin. Though lotions and creams may help, I've found olive oil to be the most effective. Not only is is great as a moisturizer but also as a cleanser&make-up remover. Because it is non-comedogenic, anti-inflammatory and hypo-allergic, it won't clog pores, will reduce swelling/redness and can be used by just about anyone! Also contrary to popular belief, it does not make your skin more oily and can safely be used on the face too.

  • Instead of purchasing olive oil in aerosol cans, use an air pump like this one. This gives you the freedom to choose high quality oils instead of being stuck to the brands that put oil in cans and you can do without the propellant that comes in those cans. You do have to pump the bottle a few times before spraying onto a surface but it's minimal effort for low-oil meal preparation. The total amount of oil misted onto a pan probably measures less than a quarter teaspoon.


    Make sure the pump you purchase isn't clear like this one to minimize rancidity caused by light.