Everything You Need to Know About Storing Premium Olive Oil
Proper storage is essential to preserve the quality, flavor, and health benefits of your premium extra virgin olive oil. We've compiled answers to the most common questions about olive oil storage and shelf life to help you get the most out of every bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does olive oil last?
Unopened: High-quality extra virgin olive oil typically lasts 18-24 months from the harvest date when stored properly. Always check the harvest date on the bottle—this is more important than the "best by" date.
Opened: Once opened, use your olive oil within 3-6 months for optimal flavor and freshness. The oil begins to oxidize once exposed to air, gradually losing its vibrant flavor and beneficial polyphenols.
What's the best way to store olive oil?
Follow these four golden rules:
- Keep it dark: Store in a dark glass bottle or tin to protect from light exposure. This is why our olive oil comes in dark glass bottles.
- Keep it cool: Store at 57-70°F (14-21°C). Avoid placing near the stove, oven, or in direct sunlight.
- Keep it sealed: Always close the cap tightly after each use to minimize air exposure.
- Keep it away from heat: Never store olive oil above the stove or near other heat sources.
Should I refrigerate olive oil?
No, refrigeration is not necessary and can actually be inconvenient. Cold temperatures cause olive oil to solidify and become cloudy. While this doesn't harm the oil, you'll need to wait for it to return to room temperature before using it. A cool, dark pantry or cupboard is ideal.
Why did my olive oil solidify or turn cloudy?
This is completely normal! Olive oil contains natural waxes that solidify at temperatures below 50°F (10°C). If your oil becomes cloudy or thick, simply let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, and it will return to its liquid state. This process doesn't affect quality or flavor.
How can I tell if my olive oil has gone bad?
Trust your senses:
- Smell: Fresh olive oil has a fruity, grassy, or peppery aroma. Rancid oil smells like crayons, putty, or old nuts.
- Taste: Good olive oil tastes fresh and vibrant with pleasant bitterness or pepperiness. Rancid oil tastes stale, greasy, or musty.
- Appearance: While color varies naturally, any unusual separation or off-putting appearance may indicate spoilage.
Does the bottle color matter?
Absolutely! Light is one of olive oil's biggest enemies. Dark glass bottles (green, brown, or black) or tins protect the oil from UV light, which breaks down beneficial compounds and accelerates rancidity. This is why we package our olive oil in dark glass bottles—it's not just about aesthetics, it's about preservation.
Can I store olive oil in a clear glass bottle or plastic container?
We don't recommend it. Clear glass allows light penetration, and plastic can leach chemicals into the oil over time. If you must transfer your oil, use a dark glass bottle with an airtight cap and store it in a dark cupboard.
What's the difference between harvest date and best-by date?
The harvest date tells you when the olives were picked and pressed—this is the most important date for quality. The best-by date is typically 18-24 months from the harvest date and indicates when the producer recommends using the oil by for peak freshness. Always look for the harvest date when buying olive oil.
How should I store olive oil for long-term use?
If you've purchased multiple bottles, keep unopened bottles in a cool, dark place. Once you open a bottle, use it regularly rather than saving it for special occasions—olive oil is meant to be enjoyed fresh, not aged like wine.
Does premium olive oil last longer than regular olive oil?
High-quality, early-harvest extra virgin olive oil often contains higher levels of natural antioxidants (polyphenols), which can help it resist oxidation slightly longer than lower-grade oils. However, all olive oils are perishable and should be stored properly and used within the recommended timeframe.
The Bottom Line
Proper storage is simple: keep your olive oil in its original dark bottle, store it in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat and light, seal it tightly after each use, and enjoy it within 3-6 months of opening. By following these guidelines, you'll experience the full flavor, aroma, and health benefits of premium extra virgin olive oil.
Have more questions? Feel free to reach out—we're always happy to help you get the most out of your olive oil!
