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Olive oil is a pushy customer. Have you noticed the extent to which our supermarket and delicatessen shelves are bulging under the weight of imported and local varieties? What used to be a simple enough decision is now surrounded by complexity and seriousness. The introduction of boutique varietals coincide with the possibility of new and rewarding taste experiences. The industry is also starting to attract the services of experts. Last year, I attended a conference for manufacturers and purveyors of these oils. The opening speaker offered suggestions for matching her Frantoio pressings with “sophisticated accompaniments” An international chef berated the audience for their lack of knowledge and there were heated arguments between...

Despite their negative publicity over the years, edible oils play an important role in maintaining physical health and wellbeing. Compared to other nutrients, they are particularly high in energy and are routinely stored as a reserve supply. Every cell is surrounded by a lipid layer which helps to maintain the integrity of the intracellular environment. Oils play a key role in transporting fat-soluble nutrients like vitamin E, D, and they are key constituents of the steroidal compounds which regulate metabolism, development and integration of the body’s vital functions. It wasn’t long ago that health advocates were recommending polyunsaturated vegetable oils like safflower, sunflower, and soybean as the best choices for a healthy diet. The...