Stiftung Warentest's recent evaluation of olive oils has yielded some surprising results, even amid challenging conditions for olive growers. Despite poor olive harvests experienced due to the climate crisis, the organization tested 25 olive oils, finding seven deemed "good." This marks a notable improvement from the last test where only two out of 19 oils were recommended, highlighting the ever-changing quality of this kitchen staple.
Analyzing the samples between July and September 2024, Stiftung Warentest reported on January 23, 2025, their findings, noting the overall market faced significant challenges yet managed to churn out commendable quality. With the best product priced at 15.98 euros per liter receiving the grade 2.1, it's evident consumers have viable options, including many affordable brands.
The report indicated not only higher prices due to recent weak harvests but also signaled the possibility of lower costs on the horizon. The average price for tested oils stood at 15.40 euros per liter, reflecting minor decreases from past examinations. Yet advocates of olive oil were encouraged to note this trend toward lower prices meant good quality oils are still within reach.
Stiftung Warentest called out three oils for failing their evaluation—items from brands like La Española and dmBio showcased taste deficiencies and contained measurable contaminants. Described as "stichig-schlammig" (stale and muddy) by testers, their sensory profiles were thoroughly inadequate for the extra virgin classification, which demands excellence without errors.
"Of the 25 olive oils tested, we can recommend seven: five more than the previous test," the organization stated, reinforcing the point of increased culinary options. This diverse selection included cost-effective products from supermarket chains like Aldi and Rewe, with three of the recommended oils priced under ten euros per liter, providing affordable yet high-quality choices.
Noteworthy among the recommended items was Rewe's Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which earned high praise for its balanced mix of typical bitterness and pleasant sharpness. Meanwhile, Aldi's Cantinelle and their bio variant were also spotlighted for their great flavor at competitive prices.
Despite these promising outcomes, the report sited deep concerns over recurring issues with mineral oil contamination found across several oils tested. "The highest MOSH values were recorded from La Española, which exceeded acceptable levels for eight years," the report noted, highlighting the varying degrees of safety and quality. Potentially carcinogenic substances such as these have raised alarms for consumers over the integrity of their cooking essentials.
Convoists maintaining faith amid these revelations from the Stiftung Warentest evaluation can take solace knowing the recognized oils are still safe for use, with the prospect for more notable enhancements on the quality front as we approach the next harvest. While olive oil remains central to the culinary arts and healthy diets worldwide, these revelations urge thoughtful consumer practices, supporting brands whose standards align with public health expectations.
On the broader scale, Stiftung Warentest’s findings speak volumes about the current state of agricultural products and their susceptibility to climate influences. Evidence of visual quality degradation and taste failures among brands signify how interconnected our food systems are with environmental changes. The upcoming year's production increase is expected to help rectify some issues, or at least give consumers broader options as they stock their kitchens.
While some may need to recalibrate their preferences or expectations based on recent reports, one takeaway remains clear: good quality olive oil can still be enjoyed at reasonable prices, something the Stiftung Warentest's exhaustive testing has reaffirmed.