Understanding the difference between "best by" dates, actual spoilage, and quality degradation is essential for any home cook who wants to get the most flavor and nutrition from this valuable fat. As the oil degrades, these vibrant notes are replaced by stale, flat, or even off-putting flavors reminiscent of crayons or old nuts.
How to Detect Olive Oil Rancidity by Taste and Smell
Smell: Fresh oil has a distinct, pleasant aroma. This change is primarily due to exposure to air, light, and heat, which accelerate the oxidation process.
Refined olive oils and olive pomace oils generally have a longer shelf life than extra virgin varieties due to their lower levels of delicate compounds. Before using a bottle, pour a small amount into a spoon and take a moment to evaluate it.
How to Detect Olive Oil Rancidity by Taste and Smell
An expired bottle of olive oil is unlikely to make you sick, but it will likely taste unpleasant. Unopened bottles of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can last for 12 to 18 months past this date if stored correctly.
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