L’olive oil it is an important component of Mediterranean cuisine and is present on almost all Italian tables. But to preserve its properties and benefits it is good to understand how to store it at home. In fact, tradition does not always exalt the correct way of preserving oil. For these reasons, all the functional information was collected to discover where to store cooking oil at home to keep it looking its best.
Where best to store oil?
For conserve olive oil as best as possibleit is important to follow some guidelines to preserve its freshness, aroma and quality over time: the ideal conservation of the oil is in a dry place which is maintained around the 14-18°. These temperatures can be reached in a turned off and insulated pantry or in a kitchen cabinet away from gas, ceramic hob or refrigerator. To have one ideal conservation it is good to follow the following instructions:
- Cool, dark place: Store the oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Light and heat can accelerate the oxidation process of the oil, reducing its shelf life and compromising its flavor.
- Airtight container: Use an airtight container, such as a dark glass bottle or stainless steel container, to protect the oil from oxidation and moisture. Make sure the container has an airtight seal to preserve the freshness of the oil.
- Avoid air: Minimize the oil’s contact with air, as oxygen can accelerate the oxidation process. If possible, fill the container to the brim to reduce the space for air inside.
- Avoid temperature changes: avoid temperature changes and store the oil at constant room temperature. Temperature variations can affect the quality and stability of the oil.
- Expiration: Check the expiry date on the oil label regularly and use the oil within the recommended period to ensure maximum freshness and quality.
- Labeling: If you store multiple types of oil, it helps to clearly label your containers to avoid confusion and ensure you use the correct oil for each occasion.
By following these precautions, you can store the oil optimally, keeping it fresh and tasty for a longer period.
What is the best container for oil?
The best oil container depends on your intended use and personal preference. However, there are some factors to consider when choosing the container:
- Material: Oil containers can be made of glass, stainless steel or ceramic. Glass is a popular choice as it does not react with oils and allows you to easily see the oil level. Stainless steel is durable and does not affect the flavor of the oil. Ceramic may be aesthetically pleasing but may break more easily.
- Design: Oil containers come in a variety of designs, including spout bottles or drip pourers. It’s important to choose a design that makes pouring easy and minimizes drips or splashes.
- Capacity: consider the quantity of oil you want to store and consequently choose a capacity suited to your needs. Smaller bottles are ideal for everyday use, while larger bottles can be used to store larger quantities of oil.
- Ermetic closure: Make sure the container has an airtight seal to preserve the freshness of the oil and prevent unwanted spills.
In general, opt for a glass or stainless steel container with a spout or drip pourer can be a versatile and functional choice for storing and pouring oil efficiently and safely.
Store oil in cans
While storing oil in glass is the optimal solution, storing it in cans can be a common practice, especially for larger quantities of oil. You need to make sure you use a can specifically designed to hold edible oil. These cans are generally made with materials such as stainless steel or tin to avoid corrosion and ensure food safety.
Cans should be checked regularly for signs of corrosion, leaks or damage. If there are problems, replace the can can avoid oil contamination. For the same reason it is best to keep the cans tightly closed if you are not using oil to avoid oxidation.
How long can the oil stay in the can?
Extra virgin olive oil does not have a Expiration date defined. The date indicated on the label is only an indication for optimal quality. Stored correctly in the can, with no damage or signs of corrosion, theOil can last up to 18 months. After this period, the flavors diminish but it remains safe and consumable.
However, it is important to note that the oil can gradually lose its flavor and properties nutrients over time, especially when exposed to light, heat or oxygen. Therefore, it is advisable to use the oil within a reasonable period of time to ensure optimal freshness and flavor.
Store the oil in the fridge
Storing oil in the fridge is generally not recommended, as it can compromise its quality and consistency. The cold of the refrigerator can negatively affect freshness and the flavor of the oil, altering its organoleptic characteristics.
Some types of oil, such as extra virgin olive oil, tend to solidify at low temperatures. If you store the oil in the fridge, it may become too thick or even solidify completely, making it difficult to use. Additionally, temperature changes can cause condensation inside the oil container, which can lead to moisture and mold growth, making the oil unusable.
Instead of storing the oil in the fridge, it is best to store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Better make sure the container is tightly closed to avoid oxidation and contamination of the oil. By following these guidelines, it will be possible to preserve the freshness and quality of the oil over time.
