The Difference Between Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Virgin Olive Oil

Ever wondered about the difference between virgin and extra virgin olive oil?

Olive oil is the most popular oil used in cooking various dishes. Olive oil comes in many forms and concentrations, from light to classic. Yet, the most common olive oil most people buy is virgin and extra virgin olive oil.

Extra virgin and virgin oil undergo different processes and functions. It gives them their distinct flavor for recipes for salads and appetizers. Here is our guide explaining the difference between the two oils

Process and Function of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin oil consists of fresh olive fruits from olive farms. It comes from the first milling process of the olive fruit.

Some extra virgin oil retailers will sell only COOC certified oils. You can find out more here. 

Through mechanical processes, it separates the olive oil from the vegetable water. The oil will need to have an acid level below 0.8 and a peroxide level below 20 for intake safety. In addition to the tests, it needs to pass by professional tasters to ensure it has a fruity flavor.

Extra virgin oil has a quality taste that gives a lot of health benefits and act as health supplement. It’s rich in antioxidants, which prevents cell damage and boosts metabolism. It also has a smoke point of 191°C, making it a safer option for cooking.

Process and Function of Virgin Olive Oil

Virgin oil has two kinds of production. Manufacturers often use the traditional or modern method.

Traditional olive oil processing happens with crushing olive fruits into a paste. It uses a motor with wiper blades for more milling efficiency when stone milling.

The motor mixes the paste for 20-45 minutes before extracting the oil droplets forming into one large pool. This will ensure that the oil retains a fruity flavor and aroma.

Modern oil processing is either partial or fully automated. It uses high-speed steel crushers and spiral mixing blades. Water is then added to the oil to increase its yield and quality.

Virgin oil is a popular choice for people following a diet. You can use olive oil as a dipping batter or even drizzling them on salad or pasta. There are plenty of delicious recipes online to ensure you have a healthy but fulfilling diet.

Virgin oil does not only offer fatty acid properties but is also a dietary staple. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E and resists oxidative damage. Besides that, it’s the safer option, having a low smoking point for tender cooking.

Choosing the Right Olive Oil for Cooking

Olive oil is always a great cooking aid in the kitchen, but not all are the same. Extra virgin oil is the healthier option, but you can always get the usual virgin oil if you’re on a tighter budget. If you start cooking healthy, olive oil benefits you in ways you never knew.

Now you know the difference between virgin olive oil and extra virgin olive oil. Are you looking for more cooking advice? Check out some of our other blog posts to find healthy recipes and cooking tips.