Identifying extra virgin olive oils with greater cardiovascular and antioxidant benefits is now easier than ever, and at Almazaras de la Subbética we know this very well. All you have to do is take a look at the product’s labeling to see whether it carries the new QvExtra! seal, a heart-shaped distinction recently presented by the association of the same name.
This symbol is based on the SIQEV certification system (International Quality Seal for Extra Virgin Olive Oil), developed by the organization, which ensures compliance with strict composition and quality standards.
The SIQEV heart distinguishes oils that exceed the minimum requirements set by European regulations. To obtain it, the product must meet especially rigorous criteria both in its composition and in its aroma and flavor qualities.
It therefore makes it easier for consumers to identify oils whose properties are presented in a legal, verifiable way and backed by scientific evidence, through information on the packaging that is more understandable, accurate, and reliable.
In addition, each SIQEV bottle is numbered and certified, guaranteeing the traceability of the product.
The QvExtra! seal was created to highlight what is not always visible at first glance: the real quality inside each bottle.
This certification verifies that the oil has very low acidity, a high intensity of fruitiness, and no sensory defects. It is also subject to independent controls that verify that it maintains its properties and quality throughout its shelf life, up to the best-before date.
In addition, since 2014, the system has analyzed the presence of compounds of special nutritional interest. And it is thanks to their high content of vitamin E, natural polyphenols, and unsaturated fatty acids that SIQEV EVOOs can display this heart alongside the SIQEV seal itself.
Extra virgin olive oil is much more than a healthy fat.
One of its great values lies in its high content of monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, the main fatty acid in EVOO. This component can account for approximately between 65% and 83% of its composition, and is one
of the keys to its beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. Regular consumption, as part of a balanced diet, is associated with better heart protection and a reduction in so-called “bad cholesterol” or LDL.
But the richness of EVOO does not end there. Although they appear in smaller quantities, polyphenols are one of its great nutritional treasures. These natural compounds help protect cells against oxidative damage. They have also been linked to positive effects in preventing inflammatory processes, as well as lower exposure to factors associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases and certain types of cancer.
Polyphenols also play a very interesting role in intestinal balance. They act as natural prebiotics, encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria for the microbiota and helping to keep harmful microorganisms under control. In other words, EVOO can also be a good ally for digestive wellbeing.
Another of the standout components of extra virgin olive oil is vitamin E, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power. This vitamin helps protect the body’s cells and has been linked to better metabolic control, especially in relation to glucose and the risk of diabetes.
Two of Almazaras de la Subbética’s EVOOs already carry this distinction. They are Rincón de la Subbética and Parqueoliva Serie Oro. After all, we are one of the 36 producing companies that are part of the QvExtra Association, which manages more than 100,000 hectares of olive groves and produces, in total, more than 150 million kilos of extra virgin olive oil.
Visit our online store and discover why our oils are the best ally not only in your kitchen, but also for your health!
