Olive oil is a kitchen staple, but it doesn’t last forever. Using bad olive oil can negatively affect the flavor of your dishes and even pose health risks. So how can you tell if your olive oil has gone bad? Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Olive Oil Goes Bad
Olive oil, like many other oils, is susceptible to oxidation. When exposed to air, light, or heat, the oil breaks down and eventually goes rancid. This is because the beneficial compounds in olive oil degrade over time, changing its flavor, smell, and nutritional value.
Most olive oils are best used within 12-18 months of being bottled, but once you open the bottle, the clock starts ticking faster. Proper storage can help extend its shelf life, but eventually, all olive oils will go bad.
Signs Your Olive Oil Has Gone Bad
Here’s how to tell if your olive oil is no longer good to use:
1. Smell Test
Fresh olive oil has a fruity, earthy aroma. When it goes bad, it starts to smell off — think waxy, like crayons, or even reminiscent of old paint. If your olive oil smells stale or unpleasant, it’s likely rancid.
2. Taste Test
Take a small taste of the olive oil. Fresh olive oil should taste slightly peppery or bitter, with a grassy or fruity flavor. Rancid olive oil, on the other hand, tastes flat or greasy, with an unpleasant aftertaste. If the flavor makes you wince, it’s time to throw it out.
3. Color Test
Olive oil typically has a golden-green hue, though the exact color can vary depending on the type of olives used. While color alone isn’t a foolproof test, if your olive oil looks cloudy or has separated into layers, it might be a sign of spoilage.
How to Store Olive Oil Properly
The best way to prevent olive oil from going bad is to store it correctly. Here’s how:
- Keep it in a cool, dark place: Light and heat are olive oil’s worst enemies. Store it in a pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight.
- Seal it tightly: Always close the bottle tightly after use to limit exposure to air.
- Use dark glass bottles: If possible, buy olive oil that comes in dark glass bottles. This helps protect it from light damage.
How Long Does Olive Oil Last?
Unopened bottles of olive oil can last for up to two years if stored properly. However, once opened, it’s best to use the oil within 6 months to a year for the freshest flavor. Always check the “best by” date on the bottle as a guideline, but also rely on your senses to determine if the oil is still good.
When in doubt, throw it out. Rancid olive oil won’t just taste bad; it can potentially lead to digestive issues. Always opt for fresh, high-quality olive oil to enhance your dishes.
