We have new standard for olive oil. The new decree for the commercialization of olive oil and olive pomace has already been approved in Spain. This decree responds to the demands of the oleic sector that for years asked for the updating of the regulations of 1983.
Objectives of the new olive oil standard
The main objective of the new decree on quality and traceability of olive oil and olive pomace is to revalue olive oil. It focuses especially on highlighting extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). In this way, the mixture of oils and the so-called "refreshed" is prohibited.. The so-called "refreshed" is a practice that consists of mixing oils of the same quality but from different seasons. With this, it is possible to "refresh" the aroma and flavor of oils from the most recent campaign.
For all of it a traceability system will be required standardized that will be the guarantee of quality for the consumer. In this sense the almost two thousand oil mills in Spain they will be able to show this traceability and also guarantees to the consumer or importer of the quality. Traceability systemsblockchain and digitization of the labels will help the sector in this process of transparency and compliance with the standard.
More clarity in search of the prestige of olive oil
Onwards sOnly the concepts of "Virgin" y "Extra virgin" when they refer to olive oil. They will be prohibited for any other type of vegetable oil or fat. The norm too prohibits the filling of containers in communities by supplying non-refillable containers. Another prohibition will be that oil mills process oil from pomace from other oil mills.
As of the entry into force of the rule, it will be prohibited that all foods and products that have olive oil in their composition can highlight it. They will be able to do it in the composition of the product but they will not be able to do it prominently. All this to avoid picaresque and deceit to the consumer.
A good opportunity for the sector
Undoubtedly the sector has the opportunity with this standard to value quality oils. It will be very important that you can find the best ways to communicate these values and traceability to the consumer. Improving consumer perception will be very important to the success of this new standard. It will also be important to promote and support the highest quality oils such as "extra virgin". All this in search of better prices and expand export markets with which is already the strictest olive oil standard in the world.
Another of the goals is to create between the Ministries of Agriculture and of Consumer goods un code of good practice for all processors and producers who voluntarily want to join. This code will work, in other improvements, so that the consumer has the certainty that the product they buy is "Extra virgin" by means of a container that identifies it.
