Extra virgin olive oil is great! But aromatic olive oils are just as mouth-watering! They are ideal for all meals and add a unique taste to your most simple dishes.
What are aromatic oils?
Aromatic oils are oils that have a touch of flavour added to them in one way or another. The devil is in the details, and the way the oils have been aromatized matters for the flavours and health benefits.
Many aromatic oils found in grocery stores have been manufactured with artificial or natural flavoursadded to the olive oil. Consuming oils with artificial flavours can be harmful to your health, especially if they are made with large quantities.
Are natural flavours healthier?
Natural flavours are also produced in a laboratory to extract aromatic components to obtain concentrated flavours. Even though they are subject to regulatory standards, this does not necessarily mean that natural flavours are high-quality.
Many natural flavours are mass-produced, which can lead to a loss of quality. Natural flavours can contain impurities (pesticides, heavy metals and preservatives) and additives (colouring agents and sweeteners), which can be harmful to your health.
Which is the best aromatic oil?
It is preferable to consume oil aromatized with fresh, natural aromas for health benefits and sustainability reasons.
At Maison Orphée, the secret of the exceptional quality of our aromatic oils lies in their manufacturing process: we do not add any artificial or mass-produced natural flavours. Instead, we press the herbs (e.g. lemon, basil, garlic) at the same time as the olives. The result: authentic, tasty and true aromas—without any impurities or additives.
What is the shelf life of an aromatic oil?
The shelf life of an aromatic oil is the same as regular olive oil. Unlike wine, aging olive oil does not improve its quality. In fact, it must be consumed within 24 months of its harvest. A "best-before" date is indicated on each bottle to give you an idea of its freshness.