You may have noticed a significant increase in olive oil prices recently, and we want to shed light on why this change has occurred.
Reasons Behind the Increase:
Impact of Spanish Olive Oil Prices:
The global olive oil market has been impacted by a drought in Spain, a major producer of olive oil. The scarcity of Spanish olive oil has led to a doubling of its price. In South Africa, local farmers often base their prices on international trends, thus reflecting the surge in Spanish olive oil costs.
Challenges in Harvests:
The recent years have seen a poor olive harvest in 2023, followed by a marginally better but still challenging harvest in 2024. These harvest difficulties have further tightened the local olive oil supply chain, impacting pricing.
Shift to Local Olive Oil:
Many companies that previously relied on imported olive oil are now favoring South African olive oil. This shift towards supporting local producers has led to increased demand for South African olive oil, thereby tightening the supply within the country and influencing price adjustments.
Exploring Alternatives:
While olive oil prices adjust, consider exploring alternative oils that offer excellent health benefits and culinary versatility.
Cold Pressed Macadamia Oil:
This oil, extracted from nutrient-rich macadamia nuts, is extremely wellpriced and offers a unique flavor profile. It's rich in monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health, and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking and salads alike.
Avocado Oil:
Another fantastic substitute, avocado oil, is known for its abundance of healthy fats and antioxidants. With a mild flavor and high smoke point, it’s perfect for various cooking methods, including sautéing, roasting, and dressing.
Both macadamia oil and avocado oil present exciting alternatives to olive oil, bringing their own set of health benefits and culinary possibilities.
In conclusion, whilst we have made every effort to make South African olive oil affordable, we have exciting alternatives to explore. Embracing these alternatives not only supports local agriculture but also introduces us to new flavors and nutritional benefits.
Wishing you happy and healthy cooking adventures.