As we go through Quality Month, December, it’s a good time to discuss our quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Ensuring the quality of olive oil can be challenging due to factors such as adulteration, improper storage, and misleading labeling.
To secure quality, authenticity, and compliance with diverse consumer needs and standards, EVOO producers should follow international standards.
EXPOAID team, according to the IFS BROKER certification, seeks to offer quality olive oil to its customers. Its success is due to the following:
- Certified factories with GFSI certifications (FSCC, BRC, IFS)
- Consistent suppliers selection, conforming to quality, quantity & packaging requirements.
- Regular visits and audits.
- Food Fraud & Food Defense policies.
- Avoiding chemical use.
- Promote sustainability at all levels of production.
- Production monitoring.
- Once a year product analysis.
Certifications cover food safety, religious dietary laws, organic farming practices, and international trade standards.
P.D.O. Kalamata, P.G.I. Laconia olive oils.
What does that mean?
- P.D.O. (Protected Designation of Origin), governed by the European Union, guarantees that the olive oil originates from a specific region and adheres to traditional production methods. It ensures that, from cultivation to bottling, occurs in the designated area, preserving regional authenticity.
- P.G.I. (Protected Geographical Indication) focuses on geographic origin but allows for more flexibility. While the primary production and processing occur in the specified area, some steps may take place outside it. PGI-certified olive oils still maintain a strong connection to their region of origin.
Here’s an overview of the most recognized certifications for EVOO:
- BRC (British Retail Consortium) global Standard ensures that EVOO meets strict food safety, quality, and operational standards.
- IFS (International Featured Standards) focus on food safety and quality management throughout the supply chain.
- FSCC Certification, (Food Safety System Certification) 22000, is an internationally recognized framework for ensuring food safety management systems (FSMS) across the food supply chain. Developed by the Foundation FSSC 22000, it combines ISO standards with additional sector-specific requirements to provide a comprehensive approach to food safety.
Organic farming certificates:
- EU Organic label certifies that the olive oil is produced according to organic farming principles, avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and GMOs.
- BIO SUISSE, this Swiss organic certification is one of the strictest in the world. It goes beyond basic organic standards, requiring compliance with sustainability practices such as biodiversity promotion and eco-friendly packaging.
- JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standards) signifies that the EVOO complies with Japan’s rigorous organic farming standards. It is essential for accessing the Japanese market and meeting the expectations of organic-conscious consumers.
- Naturland is an internationally recognized certification for organic farming. It guarantees that EVOO is produced without synthetic chemicals or GMOs and supports practices that promote biodiversity, soil health, and fair working conditions. This certification is particularly valued for its holistic approach, covering both environmental and social sustainability.
Other certificates:
- HALAL ensures that EVOO is compliant with Islamic dietary laws. It guarantees that the product is free from prohibited substances and adheres to ethical and hygienic production standards acceptable in Islamic cultures.
- KOSHER ensures that EVOO complies with Jewish dietary laws. It verifies that the oil is processed and handled according to kosher guidelines.
Certifications ensure that EVOO meets the diverse demands of global markets while adhering to strict safety, ethical, and environmental standards.
- For producers, obtaining certifications enhances marketability and trust.
- For consumers, certifications offer reassurance that the product aligns with their dietary, ethical, or cultural preferences.