Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular type of edible vegetable oil that is extracted from olives. It is widely used in cooking, baking, and frying due to its rich flavor.

Specifications for olive oil according to ISO

The best specifications for olive oil according to ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and European standards are as follows:

1. Physical Characteristics:

* Appearance: clear, free from any sediment or cloudiness
* Color: green to yellowish-green
* Density at 20°C: 0.910-0.925 g/cm3
* Refractive index at 20°C: 1.458-1.468
* Acidity: ≤ 0.8% (expressed as oleic acid)
* Peroxide value: ≤ 20 meq O2/kg

2. Sensory Characteristics:

* Aroma: fruity, with hints of fresh olive fruit, grass, and/or herbs
* Flavor: fruity and slightly bitter, with a peppery aftertaste
* Defects: musty, fusty, rancid, or winey flavors and aromas are considered defects

3. Chemical Composition:

* Fatty acid composition: primarily monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid) with small amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid) and saturated fatty acids (palmitic and stearic acids)
* Other components: natural antioxidants (such as tocopherols and phenols) and minor components (such as sterols and squalene)

ISO and European standards also specify the methods for testing and analyzing these characteristics, including sensory evaluation by a panel of trained tasters, chemical analysis using various laboratory techniques, and physical measurements using specialized equipment.

These specifications ensure that the sunflower oil meets the highest standards of quality and safety for human consumption.

Information about fats in sun flower oil

It is a popular cooking oil because it is high in unsaturated fats, particularly linoleic acid, which is an essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own.
Sunflower oil typically contains around 11% saturated fat, 20% monounsaturated fat, and 69% polyunsaturated fat. The polyunsaturated fats are primarily composed of linoleic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid.

It’s important to note that while sunflower oil is a healthier option compared to some other oils high in saturated fats (like coconut oil or palm oil), it should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Excessive consumption of any type of oil can lead to weight gain and other health issues.