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Omag IconExtra Virgin vs. 100% Olive Oil

Dear Art:
What is the difference between Extra Virgin olive oil and 100% olive oil?



Response:
What a great question! For an answer, I contacted my friend Renee Frigo of Lucini Italia. Her company makes Lucini Premium Select extra virgin Olive Oil, which can be found in supermarkets and specialty stores.

Renee had a very simple explanation of the differences in these types of olive oil. For olive oil to be called extra virgin, it is required by law that the acidity is less than one percent. Also, the oil is made from freshly picked green olives. Bruised olives are never used. Oil labeled 100% olive oil is sometime made of a blend of oils, and you cannot be sure of the level of quality. To be sure you're using the highest quality oil, Renee recommends sticking with extra virgin olive oil.

You can find further information about extra virgin olive oil, as well as fabulous recipes, at www.lucini.com.

Here's to cooking with only extra virgin olive oil!
Art Smith