Olive Oils in Test
May 4, 2026 - Foods
Olive Oils in Test
In the current Ökotest edition from May 2026, the test results of 30 olive oils, including 18 organic olive oils, are presented.
Ökotest criticizes, among other things, the contamination with pesticides found in the tests. These residues were detected in almost all conventional olive oils and even in several organic products. In some cases, complex multiple contaminations were found: up to six different pesticides could be identified simultaneously in one product. ÖKO-TEST critically evaluates these multiple contaminations, as possible interactions have not been sufficiently researched yet. While residues in organic oils were mostly in trace amounts and could be attributed to environmental contamination, conventional products more frequently contain substances suspected of being harmful to health.
Furthermore, mineral contamination was investigated. These typically enter the products through lubricants, packaging, or technical processes. Corresponding levels were found in the test and downgraded even at comparatively low concentrations. The background to this is planned regulatory limits, which are used as a precautionary basis for evaluation.
Moreover, further contaminants were identified that indicate deficiencies in the manufacturing process. Particularly relevant is the detection of the plasticizer dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in several oils. This substance can migrate from plastic materials such as hoses or seals into the oil and is considered harmful to reproduction. Although its use in materials that come into contact with edible oils is now restricted in the EU, the findings show that such contamination still occurs.
Overall, the test shows that contamination of olive oils with undesirable substances is often not attributable to a single factor but is the result of multiple sources of entry along the production and supply chain.
Do you also have products that you want to have tested for contaminants such as pesticides, mineral oil residues, and plasticizers?
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct these tests. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
If you have any questions, our customer advisors are very happy to assist you.
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