Is Restaurant Olive Oil Poisonous?

So is nothing sacred anymore. Can’t you go out to dinner at your favorite restaurant and enjoy an amazing dish with some olive oil as an ingredient, apparently not. Those crusaders over at UC Davis Olive Center did a study evaluating olive oils served in restaurants. The study evaluated 21 samples sold to restaurants and food service sectors. 60% of the samples failed the USDA sensory standard. Some of the oils were so defective that they were classified, by the sensory panel, as “not fit for human consumption” under the USDA standard.

Some of the samples labeled extra virgin were just adulterated with inexpensive canola oil. Not fit for human consumption is pretty scary.

The most common sensory defect was rancid with a stale walnut, crayon and waxy taste. Some oils were so strongly defective that the sensory panel analysis classified the oils as “lampante” or lamp oil. Yes oil used to light lamps, a grade “not fit for human consumption without further processing, according to the USDA Standard.

Lamp oil. Seriously…lamp oil. So what do you do? I suggest you speak to the manager or chef of your favorite restaurant and ask where they get their extra virgin olive oil from. If they have nothing to hide they will be more than happy to help you. Or you can stay away from olive oil dishes when you eat out.

When I began to write this article I became depressed. In a world that you really need to look at and investigate everything you put in your mouth I foolishly believed that people would not use this kind of adulterated product on people. From chemicals, preservatives, GMOs and so on please make sure you check everything that goes on your plate.

Eat as much fresh organic food as possible. Organic food and oils are certified organic which means no chemicals, preservatives, or GMOs. That will solve many of the issues we discussed here. Enjoy good health and live and love.

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Author Alex Ferrari is the co-owner of Olimila Gourmet Emporium (aka Ferrari Olive Oil) and has his Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Aged Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Room in the heart of Studio City in Los Angeles, CA. For more information go to: Olimila Gourmet Emporium

Alex also hosts a weekly show on YuTube called “The EVOO Show” where he discusses all things olive oil, balsamic and foodie! Watch the show by clicking here: THE EVOO Show