All About Extra-virgin olive oil
Your complete guide to extra-virgin olive oil - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Extra-virgin olive oil Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for extra-virgin olive oil in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
unopened, in a cool, dark pantry18-24 months from harvest/bottling date (check best-by date)
Signs of Spoilage
Strong, unpleasant odor (like old crayons, stale nuts, old fries, or play-doh), bitter or metallic taste, loss of fresh, fruity aroma.
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'bottled on' date. If past the date, open the bottle and smell the oil. A fresh, clean, slightly peppery, or fruity aroma indicates it's likely still good. If it has any of the off-odors, it's rancid. You can also taste a tiny amount; rancid oil will be distinctly unpleasant.
Storage Tips
Store away from heat sources (stove, oven, sunlight) and direct light. Dark glass bottles or opaque containers are ideal as light is a major accelerant of rancidity. Temperature fluctuations can also degrade quality.
opened, in a cool, dark pantry/cabinet3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid odor (crayon, stale nuts, play-doh, old fries), bitter, metallic, or waxy taste, dulling or loss of the fresh, fruity aroma and peppery finish.
How to Check
Smell the oil directly from the bottle. It should have a pleasant, characteristic aroma of fresh olives. If it smells 'off,' sour, or like old nuts/crayons, it's rancid. Taste a very small amount; fresh EVOO has a distinct, often slightly bitter and pungent (peppery) flavor. Rancid oil will taste flat, waxy, or unpleasantly bitter/metallic.
Storage Tips
Keep the bottle tightly sealed after each use to minimize exposure to oxygen. Store in a dark cupboard, away from heat and light. Avoid transferring large quantities to clear, small cruets for extended periods; only put out what you'll use in a week or two.
opened, on the counter (for daily use)1-3 months
Signs of Spoilage
Accelerated onset of rancid odors and tastes compared to ideal storage. The fresh green color may also lighten slightly.
How to Check
Frequent smell and taste checks are recommended. The rancid signs will develop faster. Pay attention to the initial fresh aroma fading quickly.
Storage Tips
If storing on the counter, use a dark-colored or opaque dispenser to protect from light. Keep it as far away from the stove and windows as possible. Only keep a small amount out for immediate use and refill from a larger, properly stored bottle to preserve the bulk of your oil.