Olive Oil Fraud Persists into 2025: Consumers Urged to Remain Vigilant

As of March 2025, olive oil fraud continues to be a significant concern within the European Union, following a record number of mislabeling and adulteration cases reported in 2024.

The EU documented 50 potential instances of olive oil fraud in the first quarter of 2024, a more than threefold increase compared to the same period in 2018. This surge is largely attributed to inflationary pressures and rising production costs, which have fueled a parallel market for this essential kitchen staple. ​

In response to these challenges, researchers have been developing advanced technologies to detect and prevent olive oil fraud. A notable advancement is the use of visible and near-infrared spectroscopy (Vis-NIR) as a screening method to distinguish between high-grade extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and lower-quality variants. This technique offers a rapid and cost-effective approach to bolster quality control in olive oil distribution. ​Spectroscopy Online

Despite these technological strides, consumers remain the first line of defense against fraudulent olive oil products. Experts recommend several strategies to ensure the authenticity of olive oil purchases:​

1. Examine the Label: Authentic extra virgin olive oil should be clearly labeled as such.​
2. Assess the Taste: Genuine EVOO typically has a bright, peppery flavor profile.​
3. Verify the Source: Look for information about the producer and the region of origin.​
4. Check for Certifications: Seals such as the DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) indicate adherence to strict production standards.​

These measures can help consumers navigate the market and select high-quality, authentic olive oil products. ​

The olive oil industry continues to grapple with the challenges posed by fraud and mislabeling. Ongoing collaboration between regulatory authorities, researchers, and consumers is essential to uphold the integrity of olive oil products and protect public health.