Wondering How to Store Olive Oil? Here's Our Best Tips

Wondering How to Store Olive Oil? Here's Our Best Tips

Olive oil is a staple in many kitchens, so it just makes sense to store it close to the stove. While that is most convenient it’s the worst place possible. When olive oil is stored adjacent to the stove, it is exposed to its worst enemies, heat, and light.

Why Olive Oil Storage Matters

oil in a gravy boat for how to store olive oil

In order to preserve the integrity and quality of olive oil, it is essential to store it properly. Olive oil that is exposed to heat, light, or oxygen may become rancid and offensive to the palate. While rancid oil may not make you sick, using it can ruin the flavor of your meal. To ensure the best flavor, preserve olive oil by always keeping it in a dark and cool area. Even when the oil isn’t rancid, improper storage can result in a lack of fresh flavor and fragrance.


Proper storage protects olive oil from its three main enemies: heat, light, and oxygen. The goals are to protect your EVOO’s quality, flavor, and to prolong its shelf life.

Avoid the following conditions in your kitchen:


  • Heat exposure speeds up the process of breaking down the oil. Avoid storing olive oil near the stove and oven, on top of the refrigerator, or anywhere heat tends to accumulate.
  • Light speeds up the oil’s degradation. Storage options should avoid exposure to both direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting.
  • Air increases oxidation and depletes the oil of antioxidants
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