You've invested in premium extra virgin olive oil, but are you storing it correctly? Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavor, aroma, and health benefits of your olive oil. Even the highest quality oil can degrade quickly if not stored properly. Here's everything you need to know about keeping your olive oil fresh.
The Three Enemies of Olive Oil
Understanding what damages olive oil is the first step to preserving it. The three main culprits are:
- Light: UV rays break down the beneficial compounds in olive oil
- Heat: High temperatures accelerate oxidation and rancidity
- Air: Oxygen exposure causes the oil to deteriorate over time
That's why our Bill's Premium Olive Oil comes in dark glass bottles—to protect your oil from light damage from the moment it leaves our facility.
The Ideal Storage Location
Store your olive oil in a cool, dark place away from the stove, oven, or any heat source. A pantry or cupboard away from appliances is perfect. The ideal temperature range is between 57°F and 70°F (14°C to 21°C). Avoid storing olive oil:
- Next to the stove (too much heat)
- On the counter near a window (light exposure)
- In the refrigerator (can cause cloudiness and solidification)
- Above the refrigerator (surprisingly warm spot)
Keep the Bottle Sealed
Always close the cap tightly after each use. Exposure to air causes oxidation, which leads to rancidity and loss of flavor. If you've purchased a larger bottle, consider transferring some to a smaller container for daily use, keeping the main bottle sealed to minimize air exposure.
Use Dark Glass or Stainless Steel Containers
If you need to transfer your olive oil, use dark glass bottles or stainless steel containers. Avoid clear glass or plastic, which allow light penetration and can leach chemicals into the oil. Our bottles are specifically chosen to provide optimal protection.
How Long Does Olive Oil Last?
Extra virgin olive oil is best consumed within 18-24 months of the harvest date. Once opened, try to use it within 3-6 months for optimal flavor and health benefits. This is why we offer multiple sizes—so you can choose the right amount for your household and always enjoy fresh oil.
Signs Your Olive Oil Has Gone Bad
Know when it's time to replace your oil. Signs of rancidity include:
- Smell like crayons, putty, or old nuts
- Taste flat, greasy, or unpleasant
- Lost its peppery kick and fruity aroma
- Color has become noticeably lighter
Fresh, high-quality extra virgin olive oil like ours should smell fruity and grassy, taste vibrant with a peppery finish, and have a rich golden-green color.
Should You Refrigerate Olive Oil?
Generally, no. Refrigeration can cause olive oil to solidify and become cloudy. While this doesn't harm the oil and it will return to liquid at room temperature, the repeated temperature changes from taking it in and out of the fridge can actually accelerate degradation. Room temperature storage in a dark cupboard is best.
Buying the Right Amount
One of the best ways to ensure freshness is to buy olive oil in quantities you'll use within a few months. Our 6-pack and 12-pack options are perfect for households that use olive oil regularly, while our single bottles are ideal if you're just starting to explore premium olive oil or use it less frequently.
Special Storage Tips for Bulk Purchases
If you've purchased our 12-pack for the best value, here's how to keep it fresh:
- Keep unopened bottles in their original packaging in a cool, dark place
- Only open one bottle at a time
- Rotate your stock—use the oldest bottles first
- Consider sharing with friends or family to ensure nothing goes to waste
Maximize Your Investment
Premium extra virgin olive oil is an investment in your health and culinary experiences. Proper storage ensures you get the full value of that investment—enjoying every drop at peak freshness with all the flavor and health benefits intact.
Ready to stock your kitchen with properly packaged, premium Greek olive oil? Our dark glass bottles are designed to protect your oil from the moment it's bottled to the moment you drizzle it on your favorite dish. Explore our collection and experience the Bill's Premium Olive Oil difference.
