Olive oil has many health benefits. It is a good source of healthy fats (monounsaturated fatty acids) and contains antioxidants. For people suffering from allergies, it has the extra bonus of being made from a fruit rather than a nut.
A 2010 report at the UC Davis Olive Center found that approximately 69% of olive oil imported into California, is adulterated. Even more shocking, according to Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive OIl by Tom Meuller, soy bean oil is often mixed with a small amount of olive oil, beta carotene, and chlorophyll and then labeled extra virgin olive oil. This oil may end up on your grocery shelf but more often, it is sold commercially to restaurants. (Listen to the entire interview on Fresh Air, aired December 12, 2011.)
Take action to protect your food sources. Contact your congressional officials to encourage their support of the fair labeling of oilive oil and adequate funding of the USDA for enforcement to prevent counterfeiting.
Eat well and be well,
Krista
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