Why You Should Keep Your Olive Oil Away from Direct Sunlight
When it comes to preserving the quality and health benefits of olive oil, how you store it is just as important as which brand you buy. One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving their olive oil exposed to direct sunlight—often unknowingly on a kitchen countertop or windowsill.
At VivaCento, we combat this problem by packaging your oil in a matte black glass bottle design. It’s such an important part of keeping a quality olive oil – that’s why our tagline is DON’T LET THE LIGHT IN. AMO IL BUIO.
Let’s explore why we do this, why olive oil and sunlight don’t mix—and what you can do to keep your oil fresh, flavorful, and full of goodness.
1. Sunlight Speeds Up Oxidation
VivaCento’s olive oil is rich in natural compounds like polyphenols and monounsaturated fats that make it a healthy choice. However, these beneficial compounds are highly sensitive to light, especially UV rays from the sun.
When exposed to sunlight, olive oil undergoes oxidation—a chemical reaction that breaks down its structure. This causes the oil to become rancid faster, losing its flavor and nutritional value. What was once a smooth, peppery oil can quickly turn into something bitter or musty.
2. Loss of Antioxidants and Nutrients
One of olive oil’s biggest health benefits comes from its polyphenols, which act as powerful antioxidants. Studies have shown that light exposure significantly depletes these antioxidants over time. This means that even if you’re using high-polyphenol olive oil for its anti-inflammatory or heart-health benefits, you’re missing out if it’s been sitting in the sun.
In short: sunlight damages what makes olive oil healthy.
3. Shortened Shelf Life
Stored properly, a high-quality extra virgin olive oil can last around 24 months from harvest. But if it’s kept in a bright spot, that shelf life can be cut in half—or worse.
If you’ve ever opened a bottle only to find the flavor flat or unpleasant, poor storage could be the culprit, not the oil itself.
4. Changes in Color and Aroma
Exposure to light can also affect the color and aroma of olive oil. While color isn’t the best indicator of quality, a shift from vibrant green to dull yellow may signal light-induced degradation. The oil may also develop off-putting smells, like crayons or old nuts—classic signs of rancidity.
How Should You Store Olive Oil?
To protect your VivaCento olive oil and get the most out of it:
• Keep it in the dark glass bottle provided. This helps to block light.
• Store it in a cool, dark cupboard, away from windows, ovens, and stovetops.
• Avoid plastic containers, which can leach chemicals and allow light and air to pass through.
Final Thoughts
Our olive oil is more than just a kitchen staple—it’s a superfood packed with flavor and health benefits. But to preserve those qualities, storage is key. Keeping your olive oil away from direct sunlight is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect its quality.
So next time you reach for that beautiful bottle, make sure it’s been living in the dark. Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you.
Did you know?
At VivaCento, we offer single-serve shots to minimize exposure to light and air—so you get all the benefits, in a convenient measure, every time.