Olive oil is a staple in many kitchens, and it’s no wonder why. It’s healthy and can be used in a variety of dishes. But what about the difference between ordinary olive oil you find in grocery stores and our U.P. (Ultra-Premium) extra virgin olive oil? 

U.P. olive oil is a premium brand that is sold in specialty stores, like Epicurean Olive Oils. The olives are sourced from all the best groves worldwide, and the oil has to pass a number of quality tests before it can be bottled. Why should you buy U.P. extra virgin olive oil instead of the brands that you find at your local grocery store? Let us count the ways!

U.P. olive oil is a premium brand of extra virgin olive oil with standards higher than the International Olive Oil Council. To be certified, the olive oil must meet certain standards for acidity, flavor, and aroma. U.P. olive oil is made from olives that are grown in ideal conditions and are cold-pressed within 24 hours of harvest. This results in a product that has superior flavor and aroma.

U.P. olive oil is fresher. Because our olive oil is produced in smaller batches, it doesn’t sit on store shelves for months (or even years) at a time like some of the other brands. It’s also healthier. U.P. olive oil contains more antioxidants than other types of olive oil, which means it’s better for your heart and your overall health. 

U.P. olive oil simply tastes better. We know that not everyone is a foodie, but if you’re looking for an olive oil that has complex flavors and a smooth texture, our U.P. olive oil is the way to go. Olive oil that is made from pure, cold-pressed olives. It is the highest quality olive oil available and has a fruity, peppery flavor.

While there are standards for extra virgin olive oil, there is no regulation, and it is estimated that around 50% of the extra virgin olive oils sold in America is mislabeled.  A 2010 UC Davis / Australian Oils Research Laboratory survey of supermarket extra virgin olive oils found that “the top-selling imported brands of ‘extra virgin’ olive oil sold in the United States and purchased at retail locations throughout California often failed the IOC’s sensory standards for extra virgin olive oil.”   You can read the UC Davis report here.

In order to be considered “Extra virgin” the oil must have zero defects and greater than zero fruitiness. Extra virgin olive oil is one of the few oils that can be consumed immediately.  The testing and analysis of the oil will tell you the quality of the oil.

When selecting olive oil, it is important to choose a brand that is high in quality like those we offer at Epicurean Olive Oils. All of our Ultra-Premium Extra Virgin Olive oils are tested by one of the most credentialed olive oil labs in the world. Or standards include DAGs and PPP, the most advanced testing methods in use to assure freshness and ethnicity. 

So, the next time you are in the market for olive oil, be sure to look for true ultra-premium brands like ours. Your taste buds (and your health) will thank you! 

Epicurean Olive Oils in Camarillo, CA carries a variety of gourmet olive oils and balsamic vinegars. From high-quality extra virgin olive oil to flavored and infused products from all around the world, you can add a delicious and healthy alternative to your everyday diet. To learn more about the health benefits of olive oil, food pairings, and recipes, visit our website. 

Epicurean Olive Oils
97 E Daily Dr
Camarillo, CA 93010
(805) 383-6489
www.epicureanoliveoils.com