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If olive oil is an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine, it is thanks to its unique flavor. But not only that. Since always, consumers are aware of its beneficial effects for health.
However, not all olive oils on the market live up to their reputation. A survey of 60 million consumers highlights worrying practices and reveals certain brands to absolutely avoid. Experts remind us how important it is to make a wise choice at the supermarket. Not all references are equal.
The benefits of olive oil, a reality!
We have known for centuries that olive oil is a real treasure nutritional. Indeed, it is not since the modern era that we have been aware of it. To tell the truth, the first traces of its use date back to around 4,000 BC. The ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians used olive oil, among other things, for its medicinal and cosmetic properties.
But what are they, exactly? Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, olive oil plays a key role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL).
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Its virtues do not stop there. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it contributes to soothe chronic inflammation and could even offer protection against certain cancers, notably colorectal, skin and kidney.
In addition, olive oil is very beneficial for the skin. Since it is rich in fatty acids, it is perfect for deeply hydrating and nourishing the skin. In addition, it is soothing and forms a protective barrier.
A survey to know
In itself, olive oil is therefore interesting. It can fit perfectly into your daily diet. But you still have to make the right choice. Gold, experts from 60 million consumers tell us that not all references are equal.
On a study bringing together 24 referencesthey point out that almost half contain substances of concern. They point in particular to the presence of plasticizers.
Three of them are of great concern. Di-isononyl phthalate (DINP), Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and Dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The latter, in particular, is an endocrine disruptor. It is toxic for reproduction, according to the conclusions of theEuropean Chemicals Agency. These substances, present in certain olive oils, raise serious concerns about their impact on health.
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Four brands of olive oil to avoid
The study identifies four brands of olive oil containing these plasticizers and endocrine disruptors. These are Terra Delyssa, La Vie Claire, Cauvin Bio and, finally, Naturalia Virginie Extra.
These four olive oils do not meet health safety expectations. SO, experts advise you not to buy them. On the other hand, they do not forget to highlight a quality reference.
It's ultimately the brand Primadonnaavailable at Lidl, which finds favor with experts. With a score of 16 out of 20it is the only oil in the study to contain no pollutants.
In addition to its exemplary purity, this oil is available at an affordable price, less than ten euroswhich makes it accessible to a wide audience.
