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9. 2. 2025

How to store olive oil properly for maximum freshness

To get the most out of your Chiavalon olive oil, it’s important to store it properly. Olive oil is a delicate product, and exposure to light, heat, and air can cause it to degrade quickly. Follow these tips to ensure your olive oil stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.

Keep it in a cool, dark place

Olive oil should be stored away from direct sunlight. Exposure to light can cause the oil to break down and lose its flavor. Store your Chiavalon olive oil in a cool, dark cupboard or pantry, ideally at a temperature between 15–18°C (59–65°F), but room temperature around 21-22°C is also fine if is not exposed to the sun directly. 

Avoid heat

Outside heat is one of the biggest enemies of olive oil. It can cause the oil to oxidize, resulting in a rancid taste if it is stored near your stove, oven, or other heat sources. Instead, keep it in a stable, cool environment to maintain its quality.

Olive oil in cooking

Seal the bottle tightly

Once you’ve opened your bottle of Chiavalon olive oil, make sure to seal it tightly after each use. Exposure to air can cause oxidation, which degrades the oil and affects its flavor. If you’re using a pour spout, ensure it’s tightly fitted when not in use.

Use smaller bottles

If you don’t use olive oil frequently, consider buying smaller bottles. This way, you can open one bottle at a time, keeping the others sealed and fresh for longer. Chiavalon extra virgin olive oil comes in various sizes, making it easy to choose one that fits your needs.

Check the expiry date

While olive oil doesn’t spoil in the same way perishable foods do, it does have a shelf life. Be sure to check the expiration date on your bottle and try to use the oil within 18 months of harvest for the best flavor and quality. Although it is common to see bottles labeled with ’24 months from bottling,’ which follows the law, this does not guarantee that the oil comes from the harvest of that particular year. As such, this labeling practice can be misleading for consumers. For this reason, it is always advisable to look for an olive oil producer who specifies the harvest year and month on the label, and then calculates the shelf life of 18 or, at most, 24 months from that date, as the law requires.

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Chiavalon olive oil. By keeping it in a cool, dark place, sealing it tightly, and checking its expiry date, you can enjoy the full benefits of this high-quality product for months to come.