Where do you store your olive oil?

It’s tempting —and awfully convenient– to store your oil right next to the stove, at an easy arm’s reach; however, is that actually the most ideal spot?

Olive oil could be a buttery staple that we tend to use virtually every time, and whether you have a standard work-a-day oil or a fancy bottle of extra-virgin olive oil like O-Live, the key to making sure it last is proper storage. So, now that you know the difference between regular and extra virgin olive oil, it’s time to make sure you’re storing it properly.

Things to Keep Away from Olive Oil

Olive oil has 3 enemies: elements, light, and heat. When exposed to these things, the oil will turn rancid more quickly. The best way to avoid this unfriendly change (and extend your oil’s shelf life) is through a correct and well- maintained storage process.

The Right Way to Store Olive Oil

When it involves storing this oil, there are two things to consider: where you store it and how you store it.

1. Where to Store Olive Oil: Olive oil ought to be stored in a rather cool, dry, and dark cupboard, away from the heat and light. Choose a spot in the kitchen that is far away from the oven and other heat-generating appliances in the kitchen. The best temperature for storing oil is 570F, though room temperature, or 700F.

2. How: Do not store oil in direct sunlight. Olive oil usually lasts for 2-3 months. After that you should replace your bottle.

The right bottle and conditions to store extra virgin olive oil & olive oil

Store the olive oil inside dark-colored, glass bottles. This will help it to stay out of sunshine or you could also store your oil in a steel cylinder. This will protect the oil from exposure to the light of day. O-Live utilizes dark green glass, which is eco-friendly, protects from sunlight and is healthy for you.

If you purchased your oil inside a massive tin, consider pouring smaller amounts in a dark-colored bottle to use for short periodical needs. Avoid storing oil in plastic bottles, no matter how fancy they look. This is because the chemicals from the plastic will gradually; over time penetrate into the oil.

Also, avoid reactive metal bottles, like iron or copper. It can cause a reaction with the oil, making it unsafe.

It is also important to limit oil’s exposure to oxygen (open-air). Over time, this element will degrade the standard of the oil, eventually turn it rancid. Use oil soon after buying it and always keep it stored with a cap or lid.

Conclusion

Do you have a favorite utensil you would have preferred for your olive oil? Don’t forget: the best bottles to store olive oil are dark-colored bottles such as O-Live's dark green bottle. Store your olive oil in a dark-colored glass bottle to help keep out the light, or in a stainless-steel container. This will protect the oil from sunlight damage. Buying in large quantities? Always pour the oils in smaller amounts into dark-colored bottles to use as you need in order to avoid wasting your money.