Don’t let it spoil.
At EatingWellwe’re big fans of olive oil—it sits right at the intersection of great flavor and real health benefits. Unsurprisingly, we’ve covered the health benefits of olive oil from just about every angle. From supporting your brain to strengthening your bones, the research suggests olive oil is a boon for many systems in your body.
But not all olive oil is created equal. A new study takes a closer look at different varieties and suggests that one type—virgin olive oil—may offer an edge, especially when it comes to gut health. Published at the end of January, scientists found that people who consumed more virgin olive oil (compared to those who favored so-called “common” olive oil) had a healthier makeup of bacteria in their gut microbiome. More specifically, people who consumed more virgin olive oil had fewer counts of two strains of gut bacteria that are linked to cognitive decline and inattention.
So what sets virgin olive oil apart? It largely comes down to its higher concentration of polyphenols—beneficial compounds such as phytosterols and tocopherols, among others. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which likely play a role in supporting a healthier microbiome.
There is one important caveat, though: Those same beneficial compounds are sensitive to light and heat. So, how you store your olive oil makes a difference. To keep it at peak healthfulness, keep your virgin or extra-virgin olive oil in a dark or opaque bottle and store it in a cool spot—well away from the heat of your stove or direct sunlight. Read on for our favorite storage solutions at Amazon that can help protect your oil’s quality and nutrients.
This sprayer is ideal when you want to limit how much oil you apply while still achieving an even application. We also love that this sprayer is made of dark green glass, so there are no microplastics to contend with, and sunlight is kept out.
We prefer this tidier solution for basting over your typical brush-and-bowl method. Shoppers appreciate the sturdy glass base and how the lid adjusts its tight seal as the oil volume goes up or down. If you want a slightly larger dispenser, this one from Yarramate is 10 ounces and only $3 more. Neither comes in colored glass, so don’t plan to store your oil in here for an extended period of time.
This brand is one we’ve waxed poetic about before—its pasta bowls are an editor favorite because they are durable and affordable yet look pricier than they are. So naturally, we are drawn to its attractive olive oil dispensers, which will look much prettier sitting on your counter than a branded olive oil bottle would.
If ceramic is what you’re looking for but the Famiware price point is too high, this Sweejar version is a great value: It’s available in multiple colors, and some are priced as low as $16 right now.
This sleek, modern-looking dispenser comes in three different finishes and four sizes, ranging from 8 to 33 ounces. But perhaps our favorite feature is that it is dishwasher-safe, making it super simple to clean between refills.
I have taste-tested and cooked with many different olive oils over the years, and this one from California Olive Ranch has remained my favorite. I am partial to the variety that is 100% from California—it’s my go-to for everyday cooking.
If you love olive oil as much as I do, you likely have more than one bottle in your pantry. Lucini’s premium select variety is my favorite as a finishing oil or in salad dressings. Don’t just take my word for it—nearly 900 Amazon shoppers give it a perfect rating.
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