Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a unique product that captures the essence of the earth, tradition, and craftsmanship in every drop. Its production, passed down from generation to generation, is a fascinating journey into the heart of Mediterranean culture.
The Stages of the Process:
- Harvesting: The manual harvesting of olives at their optimum ripeness is essential for obtaining high-quality EVOO.
- Milling: Traditional stone milling crushes the olives gradually, releasing their aromas and flavors.
- Churning: The resulting paste is churned in a mixer for several hours to extract the oil.
- Separation: The oil is separated from water and solid residues by centrifugation.
- Filtration: EVOO is filtered to remove impurities and obtain a clear and bright liquid.
Designation of Origin:
Denominations of Origin (DOs) protect the quality and origin of EVOO, ensuring that strict production standards and specific characteristics are met.
The Value of Tradition:
The artisanal production of EVOO is a process that requires time, dedication, and expert knowledge. The result is a unique product, full of flavor, aroma, and tradition.
In summary, EVOO is a gift from nature that offers us endless health and taste benefits. Its artisanal production is a cultural legacy that we must preserve and value.
Additional Information:
- The main countries producing EVOO are Spain, Italy, Greece, and Tunisia.
- EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
- EVOO contains antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
- EVOO has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- EVOO is a versatile ingredient that can be used in cooking, salad dressings, and cosmetics.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.