Olive Oil & Wellness. The Science Behind the World’s Healthiest Fat
True extra virgin olive oil is pure olive juice, 100% natural, unrefined, and cold-pressed. At García de la Cruz, we unite centuries of tradition with modern laboratory precision to ensure every drop delivers its full nutritional and wellness potential.
Based on federal nutrition guidance
Olive Oil Recommended by U.S. Dietary Guidelines
The latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourage choosing healthy fats as part of a balanced, nutrient-dense eating pattern — including oils with essential fatty acids like olive oil for everyday cooking and meals.
You can check de complete article here:
How EVOO is Crafted: 100% Natural Olive Juice. From the Tree to Your Table
Mastering the Essentials: A Guide to Authentic EVOO
What Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Extra Virgin is the highest possible grade for olive oil. It means the oil is extracted solely by mechanical means, without any heat or chemicals. To be certified as 'Extra Virgin,' it must pass rigorous laboratory tests and sensory evaluations to ensure it is 100% flawless juice, rich in flavor and nutrients.
The Language of Flavor
EVOO reflects its olive variety and where the olives are grown. A high-quality oil has a balance of fruitiness, bitterness, and pungency (that peppery finish). It should taste fresh and vibrant, never greasy. Low acidity is a key sign of quality and freshness.
Early Harvest: The Peak of Quality
While our standard EVOO is of exceptional quality, our Early Harvest Collection represents the pinnacle of our craft. We harvest our olives while they are still green, before they fully ripen. While this produces less oil per fruit, the result is a superior 'Liquid Gold' with higher antioxidant concentrations and more intense aromas. It’s the difference between a standard oil and a masterpiece of nutrition. This limited-production oil is a nutrient-dense treasure for those seeking the ultimate health benefits.
The Science of Wellness: Every drop of our EVOO is a powerhouse of bioactive compounds
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Polyphenols
Potent antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and inflammation
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Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (Oleic Acid)
Supports heart health and healthy cholesterol
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Vitamin E & K
Essential for skin health and bone strength
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Phytosterols & Squalene
Help protect cells and support immune functions
Comparing Fats: Why EVOO Stands Apart
Butter
Contains saturated fats, which can affect cholesterol levels. EVOO provides heart-healthy fats plus antioxidants that animal fats lack.
Seed Oils (Canola, Soy, etc.)
Often highly refined using heat and chemicals. EVOO is a mechanically extracted fruit juice that retains natural nutrients.
Virgin Olive Oil
Good, but Extra Virgin is the gold standard, with lower acidity and higher nutrient density.
Refined Olive Oil
Processing strips away flavor and antioxidants. EVOO retains its natural polyphenols and aromas.
Avocado Oil
Both are healthy, but EVOO contains unique polyphenols, such as oleocanthal, and delivers superior flavor and antioxidant diversity.
How to Read an EVOO Label
High-quality olive oil has nothing to hide. Here’s what to look for:
USDA Organic: No synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
Non-GMO Project Verified: Free from genetically modified organisms
American Heart Association: Meets heart-healthy criteria
Certified Vegan & NSF: Confirms purity and clean processing
Early Harvest: Higher antioxidants and flavor intensity
Origin: Look for “Product of Spain”, not vague blends
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: It might be obvious, but always look for "extra virgin"
Myth Busting: separating fact from fiction
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Myth: "EVOO isn't for cooking."
Fact: High-quality EVOO is stable up to ~400°F (200°C) and ideal for sautéing, roasting, and frying.
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Myth: "Greener oil means better quality."
Fact: Color depends on variety and harvest timing, not quality.
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Myth: "Unfiltered oil is always better."
Fact: Sediment can reduce shelf life. Careful filtration ensures freshness and stability.
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Myth: "EVOO improves with age."
Fact: EVOO is best enjoyed fresh, within 18–24 months of harvest.
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Myth: "Peppery taste means rancid."
Fact: That peppery kick comes from oleocanthal, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound and signals quality.