Yes, you can store olive oil in ceramic containers. In fact, ceramic is considered one of the best materials for olive oil storage because it offers several advantages.
Why Ceramic is Ideal for Olive Oil Storage
-
Blocks Light: Ceramic, especially dark-colored or opaque ceramic, effectively blocks out light. Light exposure can degrade olive oil, affecting its flavor and quality. Sources like Dolceterra highlight ceramic's ability to prevent light access, helping maintain the oil's quality. (https://www.dolceterra.com/blogs/news/best-way-to-store-olive-oil-keep-it-cool-dark-and-sealed)
-
Regulates Temperature: The thick walls of ceramic containers help to regulate temperature fluctuations, preventing extreme heat or cold from impacting the olive oil. Dolceterra mentions this temperature regulation as a benefit. (https://www.dolceterra.com/blogs/news/best-way-to-store-olive-oil-keep-it-cool-dark-and-sealed)
-
Airtight Seal (Crucial): While ceramic itself doesn't inherently create an airtight seal, using a well-fitting lid or stopper on your ceramic olive oil container is essential. An airtight seal prevents oxidation, a major cause of olive oil spoilage. This is emphasized by sources mentioning the importance of storing olive oil in sealed containers to prevent rapid oxidation. (https://www.oliveoilandbeyond.com/olive-oil-storage-handling-s/1865.htm) Epicurious also notes that a ceramic cruet is especially good because it blocks both light and air. (https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-store-olive-oil-article)
-
Safer than Some Alternatives: Ceramic is a safer option than some plastics, which can leach chemicals into the oil. This is highlighted by Blue Sage Pottery. (https://www.bluesagepottery.com/blog/2020/11/29/oil-bottles) It's also preferable to metals like copper or iron, which can react with the oil and create toxins. This is stated directly in the provided reference material.
Important Note: Always ensure your ceramic container is food-safe and has a tight-fitting lid to maximize the shelf life and quality of your olive oil.
