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CURIOSITIES ABOUT ITALIAN EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL: TRADITION AND QUALITY

published on 07/06/2024 Extra virgin olive oil is a product that has roots in ancient history and still today represents a symbol of quality and tradition. Let's discover together some curiosities that make this "liquid gold" an indispensable ingredient in our kitchen and beyond.

A Grandma's Remedy
Extra virgin olive oil has been used for centuries not only as a food but also for numerous therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. Our grandmothers can confirm that it was used as:
  • Soothing for a sore throat: A teaspoon of EVO oil can relieve a sore throat thanks to its emollient properties.
  • Lip balm: Applied to the lips, the oil keeps them soft and hydrated.
  • Hair shine enhancer: Used as a hair mask, it makes the hair shiny and silky.
  • Remedy for itching: Applied to the skin, it reduces the discomfort of itching.
  • Anti-lice treatment: The properties of the oil suffocate the lice, making them easier to remove.
  • Natural makeup remover: It removes makeup while hydrating the skin, leaving it soft and nourished.
It's no coincidence that many modern cosmetic products contain natural substances derived from extra virgin olive oil (such as in the Dolce Vita Toscana Il Cavallino Cosmetic Line).

Ideal Food for Weaning
Extra virgin olive oil is suitable for all ages, including very young children. During weaning, when foods other than breast milk are introduced, EVO oil is a valuable ally thanks to its high digestibility and essential nutrients for growth and development. Added to baby food and the first dishes of the little ones, it contributes to a healthy and balanced diet.

The Sooner You Taste It, the Better!
Contrary to what one might think, extra virgin olive oil does not improve over time. In fact, its organoleptic characteristics tend to deteriorate over the months. To fully appreciate its quality, flavors, and genuineness, it is advisable to consume it within a year of production.

A Made in Italy Product
Italy is not only one of the leading producers of extra virgin olive oil but also the world's top consumer. This reflects the uniqueness of our territory and the Italian passion for quality food. The regional varieties of EVO oil represent an invaluable cultural and gastronomic heritage.

The Tingling of the Oil
When tasting extra virgin olive oil, you may notice a slight tingling in your throat. This is not an indicator of acidity, as is often mistakenly believed, but is due to the presence of polyphenols. These natural compounds, which form during the olive harvest, are powerful antioxidants that contribute to making the oil healthier. Therefore, oil that tingles is often a sign of high quality and freshness.

The Color of the Oil
Another false belief is that the color of the oil depends on the variety of olives used. In reality, the color of extra virgin olive oil is mainly determined by the degree of ripeness of the olives at the time of harvest. An intense green oil comes from early-harvested olives, while a more golden color indicates riper olives.

Italian extra virgin olive oil is a treasure of our gastronomic heritage, with a long tradition of uses both in the kitchen and in personal care. Knowing its curiosities and debunking common myths helps us to appreciate it even more. Choosing quality EVO oil means investing in our health and well-being, honoring an ancient tradition.