It’s no secret that olive oil is a healthy kitchen staple—but with so many products on the market to choose from, are they all really at the same level? Let’s chat about how to find a truly high-quality oil, along with some standout options worth adding to your cart. For that reason, it’s worth taking an extra moment to check how your oil is manufactured—this should be communicated very clearly on the brand’s bottle or website (for example, we love seeing “cold-pressed” on the label). Here are a few other tips for scoping out the most top-notch olive oil. Just remember that EVOO is going to have a lower smoke point—around 325 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit—than more processed versions. For that reason, it’s best as a finishing oil (think drizzling on top of dishes or using in dressings) versus baking or high-heat roasting. When you’re scoping out the bottle itself, there’s one more thing to note: Olive oil should come in a darkly tinted, opaque container. Remember: “The antioxidants in olive oil degrade when exposed to heat, light, and oxygen,” Maggie Moon, M.S., R.D. shared with mindbodygreen, which is why the packaging is important. (More on how to store and keep your olive oil fresh here.)
