Are you wondering: does olive oil go bad? One of the most popular and versatile ingredients in the kitchen, olive oil can be used for everything from sauteing, roasting, and air-frying, to vinaigrettes, salads, marinades, pastas, and even baking – adding richness to whatever it’s added to. Rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, it’s also delicious for serving on charcuterie boards, drizzling and dipping.
But even though olive oil has been around since ancient times, it isn’t immune to time.
In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of olive oil spoilage, best storage practices, and frequently asked questions about olive oil’s shelf life.
Does Olive Oil Go Bad?
The short answer: Yes, olive oil can go bad. If so, then how long does it last?
Key Takeaways
- Olive oil can go bad from oxidation, heat exposure, and improper storage.
- Spoiled olive oil loses its nutrients, flavor, and can develop unpleasant odors.
- Proper storage in a dark, cool place can extend its shelf life.
How Long Does Olive Oil Last?
The shelf life of olive oil can depend a few factors, including its type (also known as grade), processing method, and storage conditions.
While olive oils aren’t strictly regulated by the FDA, the USDA has set grading standards.
The most commonly found olive oils in grocery stores are:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): The most popular choice, known for its rich flavor and high quality. It’s widely available and used for dressings, dipping, and light cooking.
Pure (Virgin) Olive Oil: A blend of refined and virgin olive oils, often marketed simply as “olive oil.” It has a milder taste and is commonly used for general cooking.
Light Olive Oil: Despite the name, it doesn’t have fewer calories. It’s a refined oil with a neutral flavor, making it ideal for high-heat cooking.
Infused Olive Oil: A type of olive oil flavored by adding herbs, spices, fruits, or other ingredients after the oil has been extracted. Often used for drizzling over salads, dipping bread, or tossing into pasta dishes.
Typically, extra virgin olive oil lasts 6-12 months. Refined (processed) olive oil will last about 12-18 months after opening if stored properly.
General Guidelines for Olive Oil Storage
| Type of Olive Oil | Unopened Shelf Life | Opened Shelf Life |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 12-24 months | 6-12 months |
| Pure (Virgin) Olive Oil | 18-24 months | 6-12 months |
| Light Olive Oil | 12-18 months | 3-6 months |
| Infused Olive Oil | 6-12 months | 3-6 months |
How Olive Oil Spoils
Like any food product, olive oil can degrade over time.
Signs of olive oil spoilage include:
Olive oil can oxidize and turn rancid, leading to undesirable taste and smell.
Signs to watch for include:
Smell: Waxy odor instead of a fresh, grassy aroma.
Taste: Bitter, metallic, or stale flavors.
Color & Texture: Discoloration, murkiness, or sediment buildup in the bottle.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the oil. Rancid olive oil can lose its health benefits and develop harmful free radicals.
Factors That Affect Olive Oil Freshness
Several factors affect how long olive oil will stay fresh, including:
Temperature: Heat will speed up olive oil’s oxidation and cause it to degrade faster. Store it at 50-70°F (10–21°C).
Light Exposure: UV rays break down healthy fats, use dark bottles or store in a pantry.
Time: Olive oil loses its quality over time, even if unopened. It’s best to use it within 18-24 months of the harvest date.
Oxygen Exposure: Air degrades olive oil quality. Always seal bottles tightly.
Processing Method: Extra virgin olive oil spoils faster than refined olive oil because of its higher polyphenol content.
Whether you’re using extra virgin olive oil, refined olive oil, or infused olive oils, proper storage is key to maintaining flavor and nutritional quality.
How to Know if Your Olive Oil is Fresh
Unlike wine, olive oil does not improve with age. It’s best consumed fresh to enjoy its optimal flavor and health benefits. Here are some key ways to know if your olive oil is fresh:
Taste and Smell: Fresh olive oil should have a fruity aroma and a peppery taste. Rancid olive oil may smell like crayons or have a stale, bitter taste.
Harvest Date: While not required by the FDA, many high-quality olive oil producers include harvest dates and “best by” dates on their labels to help consumers assess freshness. This tells you when the olives were harvested and helps you gauge the oil’s freshness.
Packaging: Choose olive oil in dark glass or stainless steel containers to protect it from light and air.
Does Olive Oil Past Its Expiration Still Have Health Benefits?
According to the California Olive Oil Council:
As an oil ages (past its expiration date), its antioxidant nutrients decline, but there is no change in the fatty acid profile. So from the point of view of antioxidant nutrients, the health benefits of EVOO may decrease, but its overall benefits do not disappear altogether.
So if your oil is past its label expiration, but still tastes and smells fresh, it can still be healthy to use.
Proper Storage & Handling
Storage Guidelines
- Keep olive oil in a dark, cool place and avoid storing it near stoves or windows.
- Use airtight containers to minimize air exposure.
- Never store olive oil in plastic for long periods—glass or tin is best.
Should You Refrigerate Olive Oil?
Some people refrigerate olive oil to extend shelf life, but this isn’t necessary unless you live in a hot climate.
- Pros: Refrigeration slows oxidation.
- Cons: Cold temperatures cause olive oil to become cloudy and thick, but it will return to normal at room temperature.
If you want to refrigerate your olive oil, the choice is up to you. But you may have to warm it before using.
How to Extend Olive Oil’s Shelf Life
To keep olive oil fresh for longer:
- Store it properly following the guidelines above.
- Use dark glass bottles to limit light exposure.
- Buy smaller quantities if you don’t use olive oil frequently.
- Avoid excessive air exposure—always seal tightly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does olive oil last once opened?
Extra virgin olive oil lasts 6-12 months, while refined (processsed) olive oil lasts 12-18 months after opening if stored properly.
Can rancid olive oil make you sick?
While rancid olive oil won’t cause immediate illness, long-term consumption may expose your body to oxidized fats that contribute to inflammation.
Does olive oil ever truly expire?
Yes. Over time, olive oil loses its flavor and nutritional quality. Even if it doesn’t smell rancid, expired olive oil lacks health benefits.
Can olive oil go bad before its expiration date?
Yes, heat, light, and air exposure can cause olive oil to degrade before its official expiration date.
Is cloudy olive oil bad?
Not necessarily. Cold temperatures cause temporary cloudiness, but the oil clears up when warmed.
Does the quality of olive oil affect its shelf life?
Yes! Higher quality oils (like extra virgin olive oil) spoil faster because of their natural antioxidant content, while refined oils last longer because of processing.
Conclusion: Keep Your Olive Oil Fresh Longer
By storing olive oil properly, you can preserve its flavor, nutrients, and culinary value.
- Store in a dark, airtight container to prevent oxidation.
- Keep away from heat and light to slow degradation.
- Use within 6–12 months of opening for best quality.
Following these tips ensures your olive oil stays fresh, flavorful, and packed with health benefits!
Further Reading
Does Molasses Go Bad?
Does Peanut Butter Go Bad?
Does Ketchup Go Bad?
Should Mustard Be Refrigerated?
Should Soy Sauce Be Refrigerated?
Should Worcestershire Sauce Be Refrigerated?
Does Horseradish Go Bad?
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