Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra Virgin is the highest grade of olive oil, available in both traditional and organic varieties.  First, the olives are harvested and washed with cold water.  They are ground into paste and spun in a centrifuge to extract this initial, high-quality oil.  Typically, this process occurs within 24 hours of picking the olives from the trees.

What are 'olive oil blends'?

An ‘olive oil blend’ most commonly refers to a blend of canola oil or soybean oil mixed with olive oil in a specific ratio. These blends can actually be made up of any type of oil mixed with any particular olive oil grade.

The term “first, cold press” refers to the inherent qualities of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  By definition, Extra Virgin Olive Oil should come from the initial “pressing” of the olive pulp, which creates the highest quality oil.  

The bulk of Americans buying soap in grocery stores have no clue about the major benefits of soap that is made with olive oil, but it is well worth the extra investment.  If you have dry or sensitive skin, for instance, the attributes of olive oils will actually help to soften or soothe the skin (the technical term for it is "emollient").

Studies published in the European Journal of Cancer indicate that eating too much cheese on a regular basis can increase chances of bladder cancer; however, the good news for Olive Oil lovers is that daily consumption of Olive Oils can halve the probability.