How O-liv Tests Their Olive Oil Supplements for High Polyphenol Levels
The health benefits of olive oil are well-documented, but not all olive oils are created equal. At O-liv, we are committed to providing supplements with the highest possible quality and efficacy. To ensure our olive oil supplements met the gold standard for polyphenol levels, we used two advanced testing methods to verify their content. The result? Our olive oil supplements not only deliver exceptional levels of polyphenols but also meet the stringent EU health claim for olive oil.
This article walks you through the rigorous testing process we use at O-liv, highlights the challenges of inaccurate or unverified claims in the industry, and demonstrates how our commitment to transparency sets us apart.
Why Polyphenol Content Matters
Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants naturally found in olive oil. High levels of polyphenols, such as hydroxytyrosol, oleocanthal, and oleacein, have been shown to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and combat oxidative stress. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recognizes olive oil polyphenols for their health benefits, requiring a minimum of 5 mg of hydroxytyrosol and its derivatives per 20 g of olive oil for health claims.
But here’s the issue. Many brands claim “high polyphenol content” without proper testing or data to back it up. This can mislead consumers into buying olive oil that doesn’t deliver the health benefits they’re seeking. We’re here to change that by relying on science and transparency.
The Importance of Accurate Testing
Proper polyphenol testing is critical for evaluating the quality and efficacy of olive oil. Unfortunately, as highlighted by Papa Vince’s insightful blog about global olive oil claims, many brands make exaggerated claims or don’t test their products correctly. Without reliable testing methods, consumers are left guessing whether they’re getting the health benefits they paid for.
This is why O-liv takes testing seriously. Our goal isn’t just to meet the EU health claim but to exceed it, delivering olive oil supplements rich in polyphenols and backed by data you can trust.
How O-liv Tests Olive Oil Supplements
At O-liv, we use two internationally respected methods to measure the polyphenol content in our olive oil supplements:
1. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Testing
NMR is a highly accurate and advanced technique for identifying and quantifying compounds in a sample. When applied to olive oil, NMR can precisely measure polyphenol content, such as hydroxytyrosol levels. By using this method, we are able to determine with confidence that our supplements contain optimal polyphenol concentrations.
2. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Testing
HPLC is another gold-standard method for testing olive oil. It separates, identifies, and quantifies components in a mixture, ensuring polyphenol levels are accurately measured. We used HPLC to test the efficacy of both our initial olive oil and our final supplements, ensuring consistency and reliability from start to finish.
What the Results Showed
Both NMR and HPLC confirmed remarkably high polyphenol levels in our olive oil supplements. Not only do we meet the EU health claim, but we also exceed it, delivering optimal concentrations of hydroxytyrosol, oleocanthal, and other beneficial polyphenols.
This rigorous process ensures every batch of O-liv supplements delivers the benefits that your health deserves.
Transparency and Trust in the Olive Oil Industry
Unfortunately, the olive oil industry is rife with exaggerated or empty claims. Many producers fail to back up their polyphenol claims with hard data, leaving consumers in the dark. Some prioritize polyphenol content at the expense of taste and balance, leading to excessively bitter and unpalatable oils.
Papa Vince’s critique of Moroccan olive oil marketing, for instance, highlights how bold yet unsupported claims can mislead consumers about quality and efficacy. At O-liv, we reject such practices. We believe in total transparency, which is why we attach lab reports for every batch of supplements we produce.
Our commitment is simple. We provide you with supplements that are scientifically verified, ethically sourced, and deliciously balanced.
The Challenges of Meeting EU Health Claims
Meeting the EU health claim for olive oil polyphenols isn’t as simple as it may seem. Factors like olive variety, harvest time, soil quality, and storage conditions all play vital roles in determining polyphenol levels. At O-liv, we carefully select olive varieties known for high polyphenol potential and implement meticulous harvesting and storage practices to preserve their content.
Our approach combines science with care and attention to detail, ensuring the final product you receive is of the highest quality possible.
Why Testing Correctly Matters
Without proper testing, there’s no guarantee you’re getting the health benefits you’re paying for. Relying on untested or incorrectly tested olive oil supplements can mean losing out on the protection against oxidative stress, inflammation relief, and cardiovascular support that polyphenols are known to provide.
This is why we go above and beyond to test each batch of O-liv supplements using not one but two gold-standard methods. With our commitment to accuracy and transparency, you can feel confident that you’re making the right choice for your health.
Experience the Difference with O-liv
At O-liv, we're on a mission to change the way the world views olive oil supplements. By prioritizing rigorous testing, transparency, and customer trust, we aim to provide products that not only meet but exceed industry standards.
If you’re ready to experience the powerful health benefits of polyphenols backed by science, we invite you to learn more about O-liv Olive Oil Supplements today.