What is first-pressed olive oil?

Today on the Olivarte blog, we want to write an article about first-pressed olive oil, one of the many types within the wide range of available oils, which stands out for its quality and its extraction process.

Highly demanded and valued, we are going to tell you what first-pressed oil means, explaining in depth what it consists of, its characteristics, benefits, and how it differs from other types of oil. Let's get started!

What does first-pressed oil mean?

First-pressed olive oil is the oil obtained from the first extraction of the olives, using a cold mechanical process. This traditional method was formerly done with hydraulic presses, hence the name "pressed."

Nowadays, although presses have been replaced by modern centrifugation systems, the meaning of first-pressed oil has been maintained to refer to oils extracted in the first phase of the process, without applying heat or chemicals, which makes it a very high-quality oil, highly valued for its purity, intense flavor, and nutrient preservation.

Extra virgin first-pressed olive oil

Extra virgin first-pressed olive oil meets the strictest requirements regarding quality and production. This oil comes from the first cold extraction of selected olives, harvested at the optimal ripeness, guaranteeing a final product with low acidity and great organoleptic richness.

This type of oil is considered EVOO, and you can check in detail what EVOO is on our blog, where you can learn all about its applications and the benefits it offers.

Characteristics of first-pressed oil

Once we know what it consists of, let's see the main characteristics of first-pressed oil:

• Intense flavor and aroma: preserving all the volatile compounds of the olive.
• Greenish or intense golden color: depending on the olive variety and its degree of ripeness.
• Low acidity: less than 0.8%, an essential requirement to be considered extra virgin.
• Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols: thanks to its cold extraction.

This type of oil can also be presented as unfiltered oil, which gives it a cloudier appearance and an even more intense flavor, although with shorter shelf life due to suspended residues.

First-pressed oil production process

The production process of first-pressed olive oil begins with the careful harvesting of the olives to avoid damaging the fruit. These olives are quickly transported to the , where the fruit is cleaned and crushed.

The obtained paste undergoes a cold extraction process, not exceeding 27ºC, to preserve all the oil's properties intact. This liquid is the authentic first-pressed olive oil.

In the past, as mentioned, this paste was placed between esparto mats and pressed. Although technology has evolved, respect for this first extraction process remains fundamental in high-end oils.

Benefits of first-pressed olive oil

There are many benefits of first-pressed olive oil, both nutritionally and culinarily, among which we highlight the following:

• Higher content of natural antioxidants, which help combat cellular aging.
• High proportion of monounsaturated fats, beneficial for cardiovascular health.
• Richer flavor, perfect for use raw in salads, toasts, or gourmet dishes.

Additionally, since it has not been subjected to heat or chemical treatments, it maintains all its essential nutrients intact.

Differences with other types of oil

It is important not to confuse first-pressed olive oil with other types such as refined, mild, or pomace oil.

For example, olive pomace oil is obtained from the remains of pulp and olive pits after the first extraction, using solvents and refining processes. It is a lower quality oil, more intended for industrial uses or prolonged frying.

It should also be distinguished from mild olive oil, which is a blend of refined oil with a small proportion of virgin or extra virgin, resulting in a less intense flavor.

In short, extra virgin first-pressed olive oil is a superior product, intended for those seeking the highest quality and flavor at their table.

Now that we know what first-pressed oil is, you can enjoy it more consciously and delight in its unique flavor. And if you want to keep learning about this world, we encourage you to read more content on our blog.