Think through product needs (and therefore, your ingredient needs), and use this handy guide below to compare each grade of oil quickly and easily.
Grade Of Olive Oil |
Mechanically Extracted? |
Refined? |
Strong/Destinct Flavor? |
Light In Color? |
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil |
Yes | No | Yes |
No |
Extra Virgin Olive Oil |
Yes | No | Yes | No |
Virgin Olive Oil |
Yes | No | Yes | No |
Pure Olive Oil |
Yes | Yes | Somewhat | Somewhat |
Refined Olive Oil |
Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Olive Pomace Oil |
No | Yes | No | Somewhat |
A few things to keep in mind... The mechanical extraction of olive oil usually refers to a centrifuge that spins the oil out of the olive paste. If the oil is not mechanically extracted (like Olive Pomace Oil) it uses a solvent for extraction.
The refining process may vary from oil to oil, but typically involves a high heat and filtration process that removes much of the color and flavor of the oil. Most would agree that this also depreciates many of the health benefits found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Good luck selecting the right oil for you!