Olive oil, once bottled, generally has an 18-24 month shelf life from the harvest date. However, this timeframe applies to unopened bottles. For optimal quality and flavor, extra virgin olive oil should be purchased within 12 to 18 months of its harvest date.
Shelf Life After Opening
The shelf life significantly decreases after opening. It's recommended to use the olive oil within 30 to 60 days of opening the bottle to maintain its freshness and prevent degradation. While it might remain safe to consume past this timeframe, the flavor and quality will decline.
Factors Affecting Shelf Life
Several factors influence how long olive oil remains good:
- Storage: Store olive oil in a cool, dark, and dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
- Bottle Type: Dark-colored glass bottles offer better protection against light degradation than clear glass.
- Harvest Date: Pay close attention to the harvest date on the bottle to ensure you buy and consume the olive oil within the recommended timeframe.
Purchasing and Consumption Recommendations
- Buy within 12-18 months: Purchase extra virgin olive oil within this window from the harvest date for best quality.
- Use within 30-60 days of opening: Once opened, use your olive oil promptly to maximize its freshness and flavor.
- Check for signs of rancidity: Before using olive oil, check for any off-putting odors or a noticeably bitter taste, indicating potential rancidity.
