An observation without appeal: No oil tested is completely free from residues
The investigation reveals that All olive oils analyzed contain at least one contaminantwhether it be hydrocarbons from oil or plasticizers used in industry. This contamination, sometimes at significant levels, touches as well conventional marks that organicand calls into question the confidence that consumers can place in these products.
Hydrocarbons in bottles: an invisible danger
The analysis highlights two families of oil derivatives:
- THE MOSH (Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons), present in several references, are saturated hydrocarbons liable to accumulate in the liver and the lymphoid system.
- THE Moah (Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons), much more worrying, are classified as probable carcinogens by several health agencies.
Brand oil Eco+ is pointed out to contain moah in quantity five times higher than the indicative limit set by the European Union. Other brands like Carapelli or Monini Also have traces of mosh. Only a few references, such as DELYSSA TERRA, Costa d’oro et Leosshow no detectable trace of Moah.
Omnipresent plasticizers, Even in organic oils
Another major surprise: The generalized presence of phthalatesplasticizers often classified as Endocrine disruptors. Their presence would be explained by contact with plastic materials during production or packaging (piping, tanks, packaging), although their use is prohibited in materials entering into contact with foodstuffsaccording to European regulations.
Even organic labeled oils do not escape this contamination. Puget oil is an exception by displaying only one plasticizer in minimal quantities, but brands like DELYSSA TERRA or Carapelli appear as most strongly contaminated.
Taste quality not Always there
In addition to chemical analysis, a sensory jury Assessed oils according to the criteria defined by European regulations for the “Virgin Extra” label. Result : Seven oils have notable defectslike a rancid, moldy, vinegality or acid taste, the theory disqualifying them of this appellation.
Despite everything, the study points out that most oils tested are not diluted with other lower quality oils and present A good oleic acid contentwhich remains an indicator of nutritional quality.
The results in a wink
| Oil brand | Moah detected | Plastifiants | Sensory defects | Main remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eco+ | Yes (X5 EU standard) | Yes (multiple) | Oui | High global contamination |
| Carapelli | Yes (Mosh) | Very present | Unrecognized | Brand widely concerned |
| Monini | Yes (Mosh) | Oui | Unrecognized | Monitor |
| DELYSSA TERRA | Undoubted | Very present | Non | Good taste, but high plastic pollution |
| Costa d’oro | Undoubted | Unrecognized | Non | Relatively reassuring |
| Leos | Undoubted | Unrecognized | Non | Good overall profile |
| Puget | Undoubted | Only 1 (weak) | Non | Less contaminated than the average |
A under tension sector, Deprived consumers
Faced with these results, 60 million consumers call a strengthening of controls on the entire production chainas well as increased transparency on manufacturing methods. Because if certain contamination may seem inevitable to the state of trace, Some brands are largely exceeding the acceptable thresholdswhich highlights a structural problem in the sector.
For the consumer, it becomes difficult to make an informed choice without relying on independent analyzes. The price or the label is no longer enough to guarantee impeccable quality.
What to remember before to choose olive oil
In front of such a diversity of results, Some simple recommendations can guide consumers:
- Avoid first pricesmore exposed to industrial practices at risk.
- Rely on transparent brandscommitted to quality and traceability.
- Regularly consult the comparisons and independent surveyslike those of 60 Millions or consumer organizations.
- Favor oil from small local producersoften more virtuous in terms of processes.
Olive oil remains a healthy product rich in antioxidants when it is well produced. But this investigation shows it: Between flattering marketing and reality of content, there is sometimes a abyss. It is now up to public authorities, distributors and industrialists to restore confidence.
