Yes, blended olive oil can be healthy, depending on the quality and composition of the blend. If the blend contains primarily extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), it can offer health benefits due to the presence of phenolic compounds.
Here's a breakdown:
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What is blended olive oil? Blended olive oil refers to olive oil that is made from a mixture of different olive varieties or even different grades of olive oil. An EVOO can be a blend (made from multiple olive varieties), or monovarietal (made from just one).
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The Importance of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): EVOO is the highest quality olive oil, extracted using mechanical means without the use of excessive heat or chemical solvents. It's rich in antioxidants, particularly phenolic compounds, which contribute to its health benefits.
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Health Benefits of EVOO (and beneficial blended olive oils):
- Antioxidant properties: Phenolic compounds in EVOO act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: These compounds also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart health: Studies have shown that replacing less healthy fats with EVOO can improve heart health. For example, substituting two tablespoons of EVOO per day for other fats may be beneficial.
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Not all Blended Olive Oils are Created Equal: The healthfulness of a blended olive oil hinges on its composition:
- Blends containing mostly EVOO: These blends are likely to retain many of the health benefits of pure EVOO.
- Blends of refined olive oil and EVOO: Refined olive oil lacks the beneficial compounds found in EVOO. Blends containing significant amounts of refined olive oil will be less healthy.
- Blends of other oils: Olive oil is sometimes blended with other vegetable oils that have different health properties.
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How to choose a healthy blended olive oil:
- Look for "Extra Virgin Olive Oil" on the label: This indicates the highest quality.
- Check the ingredients: Be wary of blends that list other oils.
- Consider the price: High-quality EVOO tends to be more expensive. Very cheap blended olive oil is less likely to be primarily EVOO.
- Taste and aroma: EVOO typically has a distinct flavor and aroma.
- Look for Certification and standards: Several international standards have been established, like the IOC (International Olive Council).
In summary, blended olive oil can be a healthy choice if it's primarily composed of extra virgin olive oil. Always check the label and consider the quality and composition of the blend.
