A Comprehensive Review of Characterization and Detection of Adulteration of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Abstract

Determination of authenticity of extra virgin olive oils has become very important in recent years due to the increasing public concerns about possible adulterations with relatively cheap vegetable oils and deodorized olive oils. The analysis and authentication of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) represent very challenging analytical chemical problems. Each country may have its own definition of olive oil and its own limits for particular oil parameters and monitoring guidelines in International Standards. Generally, these standards are based on the International Olive Council (IOC) and Codex Standards but often there are alternatives for different countries. The aim of this review is to provide specific information about olive oils with special concern about extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and analytical techniques to detect adulteration of EVOO. The guidelines for genuine olive oil are adapted from the IOC, other legitimate and appropriate sources. The contents provide information on possible adulterants in olive oil, the underlying causes of adulteration, and how to test for the presence of these adulterants.

Keywords: Extra Virgin Olive Oil; Detection of Adulteration; International Standards

JEL Classification: Q1