Why You Should Never Buy Olive Oil in Plastic
When it comes to premium extra virgin olive oil, the packaging isn't just about aesthetics, it's about preserving quality, protecting your health, and maintaining the oil's valuable nutrients. Despite the growing popularity of plastic bottles in the olive oil industry, mounting scientific evidence reveals why this packaging choice is problematic for both consumers and producers committed to quality.
The Science Behind the Problem
Chemical Contamination and Health Risks
Recent research has uncovered alarming levels of chemical contamination in olive oils stored in plastic containers. A comprehensive study by Mamavation found that 100% of olive oils tested contained detectable levels of phthalates, with concentrations ranging from 655 to 6,092 parts per billion. These chemicals are particularly concerning because they're linked to hormone disruption, fertility impacts, low birth weights, obesity, diabetes, and even certain cancers.
Studies have also documented the presence of Bisphenol A (BPA) in olive oils stored in plastic, with significantly higher levels found in plastic-packaged oils compared to those in non-plastic containers (333 vs. 150 μg/kg). The health implications are serious, as BPA acts as a synthetic hormone that can disrupt endocrine function and has been associated with reproductive issues and metabolic disorders.
Microplastic Contamination
Perhaps most concerning is the discovery of microplastics in olive oil itself. Research published in Food Chemistry found microplastics present in every single olive oil sample tested, with a mean abundance of 1,140 microplastics per liter. The UC Davis Olive Center has demonstrated that olive oil is actually corrosive to plastic, meaning extended shelf storage can cause the oil to break down plastic containers, resulting in microplastic contamination.
Accelerated Oxidation
Olive oil's most valuable compounds, polyphenols, vitamin E, and monounsaturated fats are highly sensitive to environmental factors. Plastic containers, particularly those made from HDPE or PET, are significantly more permeable to oxygen than glass or metal. This permeability allows oxygen to seep through the container walls, accelerating the oxidation process and shortening shelf life by 30-40% compared to glass containers.
Research shows that oils stored in plastic bottles lose their beneficial polyphenols more rapidly, with some studies indicating that polyphenols evaporate right through plastic regardless of the plastic's quality. This means you're not only getting less nutritional value but also paying premium prices for degraded oil.
Flavor and Aroma Compromise
The International Olive Council's sensory testing found that olive oil stored in plastic was more prone to developing off-flavors during storage compared to oil kept in glass. Plastic containers can absorb odors from their surroundings and may impart their own taste to the oil, dulling the nuanced flavors that make premium olive oil special.
The Superior Alternatives
Dark Glass: The Gold Standard
Studies consistently show that dark glass bottles offer up to 99% UV protection and maintain olive oil quality for 18-24 months compared to just 6-12 months in plastic. Research published in the European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology found that olive oil stored in glass had a 50% lower peroxide value (indicating less oxidation) than oil stored in plastic after six months.
Glass is completely non-reactive, preventing any chemical interaction with the oil while providing an excellent barrier against oxygen infiltration.
Metal Containers: Durable Protection
Tin containers and stainless steel offer another excellent option, particularly for bulk storage. The UC Davis Olive Oil Center identifies these materials as among the most effective for preserving olive oil quality, as they provide complete light protection and excellent oxygen barriers.
Environmental and Sustainability Concerns
Beyond health considerations, choosing plastic packaging contributes to environmental degradation. Glass can be recycled indefinitely without quality loss, while plastic degrades over time and contributes to the growing microplastics problem in our environment. For brands like Argilos EVOO that prioritize sustainability, this environmental impact is a crucial consideration.
Storage Best Practices
Whether you're purchasing or storing olive oil, follow these expert recommendations:
- Choose dark glass or tin containers over plastic whenever possible
- Store in a cool, dark location (60-70°F/15-21°C) away from light and heat sources
- Keep containers tightly sealed to minimize oxygen exposure
- Use within 12-18 months of harvest date for optimal quality
- Avoid temperature fluctuations that can accelerate degradation
The Bottom Line for Quality-Conscious Consumers
The evidence is clear: plastic packaging significantly compromises olive oil quality, safety, and nutritional value. While plastic bottles may offer convenience and lower costs, they come at the expense of everything that makes premium olive oil valuable—its health benefits, complex flavors, and nutritional integrity.
At Nostos Goods, we understand that true quality begins with proper packaging. By choosing olive oils exclusively bottled in dark glass or tin containers, you're not just purchasing a cooking ingredient, you're investing in your health, supporting sustainable practices, and ensuring you experience olive oil as nature intended: pure, flavorful, and nutritionally intact.
When you see olive oil in plastic bottles, consider it a red flag that the producer may not understand or prioritize quality preservation. Your health, your palate, and the environment all deserve better.
References:
PMC/NCBI - "Effect of containers on the quality of Chemlali olive oil during storage"
Affidia Journal - "Microplastics discovered lurking in olive oil and other vegetable oils"
Battaglini, Elena et al. “Analysis of microplastics in commercial vegetable edible oils from Italy and Spain.” Food chemistry vol. 443 (2024)
Abou Omar, Tarek F et al. “Bisphenol A exposure assessment from olive oil consumption.” Environmental monitoring and assessment vol. 189,7 (2017)
Mamavation - "Olive Oils Tested for Toxic Phthalates - Buying Guide"
