Callahan & Blaine

A recent study released by the University of California, Davis Olive Center revealed that 69% of imported olive oils and 10% of California olive oils tested were erroneously labeled as “extra virgin olive oil.” The oils that were mislabeled did not meet the International Olive Council (IOC) and US Department of Agriculture’s standards for extra virgin olive oil in either chemical makeup or sensory (taste and smell) evaluation.

So what should a consumer look for in the grocery store to ensure they are buying top quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil? Under the new USDA standards that took effect this fall, all olive oils must have a “best by” date imprinted on the bottle. The easiest thing to do is check to be sure the oil is within date, but some better quality oils have a “harvest date” on them. As a general rule of thumb, olive oil should be used within a year to eighteen months of the harvest date. Fresher is better.

An opaque or dark bottle prevents light from damaging the oils, so look for packaging that protects the product, especially if it has been shipped across an ocean. When all else fails, look for a California Olive Council seal- their standards are rigorous, and stricter than the new USDA standards.

When it comes to flavor, a greener oil comes from the early part of the harvest and will be more aggressive and peppery tasting. The late harvest produces a more golden-colored oil and will probably be mellow and taste buttery or nutty. Experts agree that like wine grapes, the variety of olive used to produce the oil is the biggest factor that creates distinctive flavors. The good news is that you’ll just have to try a bunch of different oils to find out which one you like the best!

Callahan & Blaine recently filed a class action lawsuit in Orange County Superior Court against some of California’s largest distributors and retailers of so-called “extra virgin olive oil.” The suit charges that certain olive oil manufacturers, distributors and retailers have been labeling olive oil mixed with other edible oils as “extra virgin olive oil” in violation of California law.

The plaintiffs’ class for this case is represented by attorney Daniel J. Callahan, who is best known for a $934 million verdict that involved public health and safety issues in which Callahan represented medical product manufacturer Beckman Coulter.

Stay tuned to the media and this blog for more information on this emerging case as it becomes available.