Initiative Aims to Ensure Authenticity and Quality of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Supply Chains
Concerns Prompt Australia’s Olive Oil Quality Monitoring Program
In response to growing concerns over the authenticity and quality of extra-virgin olive oil, Australia has initiated the Olive Oil Quality Monitoring Program. The program comes amidst global shortages and reports of fraudulent practices in key olive-growing regions.
Aims of the Program: The Olive Oil Quality Monitoring Program, led by the Australian Olive Association, aims to:
- Randomly test both local and imported olive oil products.
- Provide consumers with assurance regarding the quality and authenticity of the olive oil they purchase.
Background on Olive Oil Shortages: Key olive-producing regions in Spain and Italy have faced adverse weather conditions, leading to significant shortages and cases of fraudulent olive oil production. As a result, there has been pressure on olive oil supply chains worldwide.
Concerns Raised by Industry Leaders: Industry leaders, such as Michael Southan, CEO of the Australian Olive Association, express concerns about slipping quality and the potential for adulteration in the market. They emphasize the importance of ensuring consumers receive genuine, high-quality products.
Importance of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is prized for its purity and superior taste. It undergoes minimal processing and must meet strict criteria, including a free acidity level below 0.8%. The monitoring program aims to uphold these standards.
Call for Vigilance: Industry stakeholders, including olive producers like Rob Whyte, stress the need for vigilance in monitoring both local and imported olive oil. They warn against potential adulteration and emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity of the industry.
