Origins and Properties

Olive oil is the oil obtained solely from the fruit of the olive tree. Olive trees are native to the Mediterraean and are prominent in Spain and Italy. Olive oil is also produced in Greece, Portugal, Australia and North America.  The oil is rich in monounsaturates (oleic acid) and has a very distinctive taste which enhances its market value. Extra virgin oil, with excellent flavour and low acidity, is the premium quality whilst other grades of virgin oil are customarily blended with refined oil to achieve a balance of taste and acidity to suit individual markets.