Spain has a long tradition as the land of olive oil, gaining recognition as a leader in the global market for this precious liquid. Occupying an impressive 44 percent of global production, the country clearly dominates the industry, underscoring its role as a food production powerhouse.
Olive oil is not only a tasty addition to dishes, but also a treasure trove of health benefits. Thanks to its unique composition, it is loaded with healthy fats, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It is also a major component of the Mediterranean diet, known for its benefits to heart health and overall well-being.
The olive oil production process requires precision and care. Olive fruits are harvested by hand or mechanically and then processed in olive mills. Here they are milled, pressed and subjected to purification and filtration processes to produce the highest quality product.
An important moment in olive oil production is the first pressing, called “cold extraction.” It involves pressing olive oil at a low temperature, which preserves all the valuable ingredients and flavors. First-pressed oil is considered to be of the highest quality, retaining its full flavor and health properties.
Spain benefits from exceptional climatic and soil conditions that favor olive cultivation. Regions such as Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha and Catalonia are particularly known for their high quality yields. The tradition of growing olives dates back thousands of years, underscoring the importance of the fruit to Spanish culture and economy.
Olive oil is widely used both in and out of the kitchen. It is ideal for frying, cooking and salads, and is also used in cosmetic and medicinal products. Its unique flavor and health benefits make it prized around the world.
As the world's top olive oil producer, Spain not only exports its products, but also promotes healthy lifestyles and Mediterranean cuisine. Its olive oil is a symbol of quality, tradition and good taste, highlighting the importance of this precious resource to local and global communities.
