Storing olive oil properly is important to maintain its quality and prevent it from becoming rancid. To keep olive oil fresh for an extended period, it’s crucial to take specific steps to minimize factors that contribute to the deterioration of your olive oil.

Here are some tips on how to store olive oil:

Keep it in a Cool, Dark Place: exposure to heat and light can accelerate the oxidation process and degrade the quality of olive oil. Store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Choose a Tinted Bottle: when purchasing olive oil, choose a bottle that is tinted or dark in color. This helps to protect the oil from light exposure. Ideally use dark glass bottles, choose olive oil packaged in dark glass bottles or containers to protect it from light exposure. Light can cause the oil to oxidize and degrade. Keep the bottle upright, storing the bottle upright helps minimize the surface area exposed to air, reducing the risk of oxidation.

Seal the Container Tightly: make sure the bottle or container is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering. Oxygen can contribute to the oxidation of the oil.

Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: try to avoid sudden temperature changes. Olive oil is best stored at a consistent temperature. Fluctuations in temperature can lead to condensation inside the bottle, which may promote the growth of mold and bacteria.

Keep Away from Air and Moisture: exposure to air and moisture can lead to the rancidity of olive oil. Keep the olive oil bottle tightly sealed when not in use, and avoid transferring it to containers that allow air to enter.

Use a Dispenser with a Pour Spout: if you frequently use olive oil, consider using a dispenser with a pour spout. This can help minimize the exposure to air each time you use the oil.

Check the Expiry Date: olive oil has a shelf life, and it’s preferred to consume olive oil before the expiry date. Consuming olive oil past its prime may result in a less flavorful and potentially rancid product. Olive oil does not expire, but by the time it slowly looses its rich flavor and its fabulous healthy ingredients (see: Olive Oil Ingredients), therefore its ideal when its used before it degrades. Freshness of the olive oil its a plus for enjoying the full flavor and health benefits of olive oil. For more info on how long olive oil lasts visit our page “How long lasts a bottle of extra virgin olive oil?” (don’t worry, consuming “expired” olive oil will not be bad for your health and won’t make you ill, or unwell)

Store Away from Strong Odors: olive oil can absorb odors from the environment, affecting its taste. Store it away from strong-smelling substances like spices, garlic, and onions.

You should not keep any type of olive oil in any type of plastic containers: avoid storing olive oil in reactive metal containers (e.g. copper or iron) as chemical reaction between the olive oil and the metal will damage the oil and may produce toxins. Olive oil should not be stored in any type of plastic containers as the oil may absorb PVCs from the plastic.

What is the best material to store olive oil? the best containers for all types of olive oils is glass (dark glass, tinted glass), ceramic, porcelain, or storage containers made with non-reactive metals such as stainless steel.

By following these storage tips, you can help preserve the quality and flavor of your olive oil for a longer period.