It is often said that olive oil has many health benefits. However, a recent study of 60 million consumers found that some olive oils sold in supermarkets contain pollutants. In this article, we will tell you about all these results and what are the best olive oil brands to choose for your kitchen.
Benefits of olive oil
Olive oil is an essential ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine and is particularly appreciated for its qualities:
- It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins: extra virgin olive oil is obtained by cold pressing olives and is therefore minimally processed. Thus it retains all its nutritional properties.
- Studies have shown that olive oil has a protective effect against certain cardiovascular diseases.
- It is also beneficial for digestion and helps prevent certain cancers.
Alarming detection of pollutants in olive oil
After tests carried out by the magazine “60 Millions de Consumeters” on 24 references of olive oil available in supermarkets, it was revealed that the latter contained most of the pollutants..
In fact, 23 of these 24 olive oils tested contained between one and three phthalates. Phthalates are suspected endocrine disruptors and reproductive toxins. It should be noted that the law prohibits the use of materials containing phthalates in the production and storage chain of fatty substances such as olive oil.
In addition, five olive oils contain mineral oil hydrocarbons with carcinogenic and genotoxic properties:
- MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons)
- MOAH (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
The only olive oil without pollutants according to 60 million consumers
According to this study, only one brand of olive oil is free of pollutants.
However, the magazine did not want to reveal the name of the brand so as not to get free publicity. Still, they invite consumers to be vigilant and favor certified organic and fair trade brands when buying olive oil.
How to choose good olive oil?
To make sure you choose a quality olive oil, here are some tips:
- Choose extra virgin olive oils: they are obtained by cold pressing and therefore retain all their nutritional properties.
- Pay attention to the origin of the olives: choose oils made in the region where they were harvested. This helps in ensuring a better quality and tastier product.
- Check the packaging: Choose dark glass bottles, which better protect the oil from light, the number one enemy of its preservation.
- Read labels carefully: make sure there is no mention of phthalates or other pollutants.
In conclusion, even if this survey encourages us to be more careful when buying olive oil, it is important to remember that this product is good for health when consumed in moderation and that it comes from a ‘reliable source’. Do not hesitate to consume olive oil as part of a balanced and varied diet to benefit from its many benefits.
