In the foodie world, there’s often a debate about which cooking oils are safe to use at high temperatures, and olive oil is no exception. Some people question the safety of cooking with olive oil, concerned that it might not withstand the heat of the kitchen. However, when it comes to high-quality olive oil, there’s more to the story than meets the eye.

Smoke Point: What is it and Why Does it Matter? 

When it comes to cooking with oils, the smoke point is an important factor to consider. The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil begins to smoke and break down, which can release harmful chemicals and affect the flavor of your food.

High quality olive oil has a smoke point of around 410°F, which makes it a safe and healthy option for cooking and sautéing. This means that you can use olive oil to cook at high heat without worrying about it breaking down and creating harmful substances.

Why is Olive Oil a Good Choice for Cooking?

Not only is olive oil safe for cooking, but it is also packed with healthy monounsaturated fats that can benefit your heart health. These healthy fats can help to lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation in the body, and improve overall heart health.

Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect against oxidative stress and prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

In conclusion, the smoke point of high quality olive oil makes it a safe and healthy choice for cooking and sautéing. So next time you’re in the kitchen, consider reaching for a bottle of extra virgin olive oil to make your meals both delicious and nutritious!