Your Questions Answered
Here are the most common questions our customers ask about Extra Virgin Olive Oil before they buy. We have answered each one with complete accuracy so you can shop and cook with full confidence.
Is it safe to cook with Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Yes, absolutely. EVOO has a smoke point between 190°C and 210°C which is suitable for sauteing, pan frying, roasting, and most everyday cooking. Research published in the journal Acta Scientific Nutritional Health found that EVOO was the most stable cooking oil tested at high temperatures, outperforming many refined vegetable oils due to its antioxidant content.
How can I tell if my olive oil has gone bad?
Rancid olive oil smells waxy, like crayons or old nuts. It tastes flat, greasy, and has no fruitiness or peppery finish. If your EVOO has lost that characteristic pepper sensation at the back of your throat, it is past its best. Always check the harvest date and use within 18 months of harvest and within 2 to 3 months of opening.
Why does real Extra Virgin Olive Oil taste bitter and peppery?
Bitterness and pungency are positive quality indicators, not defects. They are caused by natural phenolic compounds, primarily oleuropein (bitterness) and oleocanthal (peppery sensation). The more intense these characteristics, the higher the polyphenol content and the greater the health benefits. Low-grade or old oils taste flat and mild because these compounds have degraded.
Should I store olive oil in the fridge?
Refrigeration is not necessary and can make the oil thick and difficult to pour. The ideal storage temperature is 14°C to 18°C in a sealed, dark container away from light and heat. A cool kitchen cupboard or pantry is ideal.
What does "cold-pressed" mean?
Cold-pressed means the olives were mechanically pressed without any added heat, ensuring the oil temperature never exceeds 27°C during extraction. This preserves the delicate aromatic compounds, antioxidants, and vitamins. All genuine EVOO must be cold-pressed by definition. If a product claims to be cold-pressed but is not labelled extra virgin, be sceptical.
How much olive oil should I consume daily?
Research suggests 2 to 4 tablespoons (30 to 60ml) per day provides meaningful cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits. The Mediterranean diet typically involves around 4 tablespoons per day used across meals. You can also take 1 to 2 tablespoons on an empty stomach in the morning as a wellness ritual, which is also aligned with Sunnah practice.
Is there a difference between Italian, Spanish, and other olive oils?
The country of origin affects the flavour profile but not necessarily the quality. Italy tends to produce robust, peppery oils. Spain produces milder, fruitier oils. Greece and the Middle East produce oils with their own distinct character. Quality depends on olive variety, harvest timing, processing speed, and storage, not the country alone. Always look for the harvest date and certification regardless of origin.
Can I use olive oil on my skin and hair?
Yes. Olive oil has been used in skin and hair care for thousands of years, including in Islamic tradition. It is rich in Vitamin E, squalene, and oleic acid which moisturise, protect, and heal skin. Apply a small amount to dry skin, hair ends, or use as a gentle makeup remover. Avoid applying to oily or acne-prone skin in large amounts as it can clog pores for some people.
Why is Sunnah Organics olive oil more expensive than supermarket brands?
Our EVOO is certified, single-origin, cold-pressed, and imported in small batches to ensure maximum freshness. Cheap supermarket olive oils are often blended, mislabelled, or refined. The price difference reflects genuine quality, honest sourcing, and a product that will actually deliver the health benefits you are paying for.
Does olive oil expire?
Olive oil does not expire in a way that makes it dangerous to consume, but it does go rancid and loses its flavour and health benefits over time. Use EVOO within 18 months of the harvest date and within 2 to 3 months of opening for best results.