Does Olive Oil Last Longer if You Store it in the Fridge?

 

Question: A friend of mine always stores her olive oil in the fridge. Is that necessary?

Answer: It’s not necessary, but depending on where you live, it may be a good idea.

An opened bottle of olive oil will usually keep well for up to two years when stored in a dark cupboard at normal room temperature. But in very hot, humid environments (80° F or above) olive oil has a tendency to go rancid more quickly.

Luckily, refrigeration can slow down that spoilage process, so it’s a good option for warmer kitchens.

Refrigeration can cause olive oil to become cloudy and solidify, but this will not affect the quality or flavor — once the oil is brought back to room temperature, it will return to its normal consistency and color.

 

 

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