The Preference for Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
There are many differences between makers of extra virgin olive oils and regions where olive oils are grown. Here we will study:
- The differences between Italian extra virgin olive oil and others
- What percentage of olive oil Italy produces
- The different Types of Italian olive oil
- Italian olive oil exports The reasons for such large export sales
Differences Between Italian extra Virgin Olive Oil and Olive Oils from other Countries.
Differences Between Italian extra Virgin Olive Oil and Olive Oils from other Countries. There are are few differences between Italian extra virgin olive oil and extra virgin olive oils that come from other countries. Olive oils are similar to wines in that each one has a different taste and texture to it. The taste and texture differ because of the soil where the olive tree is planted, the climate and the way the olive oil is processed. That’s why its important to try different types of olive oils. When you use one kind all the time then you may miss out on the flavors of different olive oils from different regions.
What Percentage of Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Produced in Italy?
95 % of all olive trees are grown in the Mediterranean region. Most of those trees are grown in Spain, Italy and Greece. 40 to 50% of Italy's olive production is for extra virgin olive oil. In the United States Italy is known as the top producer for extra virgin olive oil.
Different Types of Italian Olive Oil
Olive oil from Italy is regulated by the Italian government. Therefore most Italian olive oils have to have a label stating its origin. For example, olive oils that are produced in the following regions; Brisighella, Chianti, Penisola Sorrentina as well as others get a protected origin label and some even get quality assurance labels which state that they come from a controlled origin. This of course means that these olive oils are produced with the utmost quality control, and attention is paid to every detail of its process, which in turn affects the taste and texture of the extra virgin olive oil. The different varieties of Italian extra virgin olive oil are the Moraiolo, Leccino Pendolino, and the Frantoio.
How Much Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Exported by Italy?
Italy has exported great quantities of extra virgin olive oil to the United states. As of today exports have increased over 300% from the amount exported in the early 80’s. The United States is currently Italy's largest importer of extra virgin olive oil. Although another large importer of Italy's finest olive oils is Spain.
Why Does Italy Export so Much Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Studies over the last 20 years have indicated that the use of extra virgin olive oil has extreme health benefits. Olive oil is shown to lower cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases. It is known to prevent colon cancer and help in the production of pancreatic acids which avoids the creation of gall stones. It helps the digestive system and remedies gastric problems and ulcers.
