Oil is an indispensable ingredient in Portuguese cuisine and the Mediterranean diet. Whatever your type or level of acidity, the truth is that most recipes, from elaborate dishes to simple salads, requires a dose of this valuable liquid for making or seasoning. The Spanish Agricultural Cooperative SCA San Isidro, located in Castillo de Locubín, describes olive oil as “fruity, bitter and spicy”. Among these characteristics, its spicy brake is the one that most arouses the attention of some people.
According to experts cited by the Argentino website Infobae, the quality of olive oil is directly related to its taste and intensity. Thus, extra virgin oils produced from the picual olive variety are considered superior. However, this same spicy flavor may sometimes be a sign that olive oil is deteriorated and may pose a risk to health.
Although this spicy touch is usually a positive feature, it may also indicate that the olive oil is no longer in the best conditions. According to Carive News magazine, different types of throat burning sensations after consumption can be a sign of poor quality.
If the spicy taste is prolonged more than usual, it can be a sign that the olive oil has lost quality, writes a. Similarly, if your color is excessively dark, it may mean that it has been stored inappropriately. Already a taste too bitter may indicate that it was produced with deteriorated olives.
To ensure that olive oil maintains its beneficial properties and its characteristic flavor, it is essential to conserve it correctly. It should be stored in a cool place and under light, preferably in opaque containers that avoid oxidation and degradation of the product.
If you notice any changes in the aroma, color or flavor of the olive oil you have at home, the safest will be to discard it. Consumption of a deteriorated olive oil can cause digestive discomfort and, in more severe cases, food poisoning.
If you have purchased an olive oil with these suspicious characteristics, the best option is to return it to the place of purchase and inform the seller. Ensuring the quality of consumed products is critical to maintaining a balanced and safe diet.
Oil is one of the pillars of Portuguese cuisine, and your choice should be made carefully. Opt for good quality products not only ensures tastier meals, but also preserves the nutritional benefits of this essential food.
Thus, whenever you buy olive oil, check your origin, expiration date and storage conditions. Small care makes all the difference to ensure that this ingredient maintains its quality and food safety.
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