A new certification programme has been launched to establish a gold standard for High Phenolic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (HP EVOO), ensuring consumers can access its scientifically validated health benefits. The initiative, developed by Artemis Alliance Inc., follows extensive research and aligns with European Union health claims on olive oil polyphenols.
A New Standard for Olive Oil
The Aristoleo Certification programme aims to distinguish HP EVOO from standard olive oils by verifying its polyphenol content and production methods. Polyphenols, including oleocanthal and oleacein, have been linked to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative health benefits. The EU’s official health claim confirms that a minimum of 5mg of hydroxytyrosol and its derivatives per 20g of olive oil can protect blood lipids from oxidative stress.
The certification builds on the EU-funded ARISTOIL Interreg MED Programme, which analysed over 10,000 olive oil samples across five countries between 2017 and 2020. The research provided comprehensive data on HP EVOO’s health properties and production requirements, paving the way for its regulation and recognition.
Consumer Trust and Market Transparency
Growing awareness of the potential health risks associated with seed and soy oils has fuelled demand for healthier alternatives. However, market misinformation remains a challenge. The Aristoleo Certification ensures that only producers, distributors, and retailers meeting strict criteria—covering cultivation, harvesting, production, and storage—receive recognition.
“High Phenolic EVOO is more than a culinary ingredient; it is a functional food with significant health benefits,” says Marilyn Harding, Director of Artemis Alliance Inc. “Consumers researching olive oil for health reasons need absolute certainty in their purchases, and this certification guarantees that.”
Storage and Preservation
Maintaining polyphenol levels is crucial for preserving HP EVOO’s health benefits. Research shows that proper storage conditions, particularly temperatures between 12.5°C and 15°C, help retain its potency. To support this, the Aristoleo Retail Cooler has been introduced, ensuring the oil remains effective by preventing degradation.
“Like fine red wine, HP EVOO requires precise storage conditions to preserve its valuable compounds,” explains Athan Gadanidis, Marketing Director of Artemis Alliance Inc. “Our certification protocol ensures that consumers receive olive oil that delivers on its promised health benefits.”
Recognition and Industry Growth
Producers who meet the Aristoleo Certification criteria will receive the designation free of charge if they have previously won an Aristoleo Award, an international competition recognising excellence in HP EVOO production. The certification also acknowledges distributors and retailers who invest in climate-controlled storage systems and demonstrate expertise in HP EVOO’s health properties.
The initiative comes as the Aristoleo Awards prepare to celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2025, with the competition continuing to highlight outstanding HP EVOOs from Greece, Spain, Slovenia, and Croatia. The certification is expected to expand further, encouraging more producers to adopt best practices in the industry.
“As concerns about industrial seed oils grow, this certification empowers consumers to make informed choices while driving innovation in the olive oil sector,” says Gadanidis.
The programme positions HP EVOO as more than just a premium ingredient, reinforcing its role as a functional food with scientifically backed health benefits.
