Australian olive oils rank higher than some Italian and Spanish options in blind test

A consumer advocacy group conducted blind taste tests of 30 supermarket extra-virgin olive oils. Seven of the 13 oils scoring 76 percent or higher originated in Australia. The highest-scoring product was an Italian brand that received 88 percent.

Price and value results A Spanish brand sold at Woolworths was named the best value pick at $1.80 per 100 milliliters and scored 78 percent. The most expensive oil tested cost $3.50 per 100 milliliters. One of the lowest-priced oils received the lowest score of 60 percent. Testers described it as having "low intensity of flavour."

Judges assessed purity, freshness, fruitiness, and pungency. Panel members were advised to focus on taste and mouthfeel rather than color. Storage recommendations include keeping bottles in a cool, dark place without refrigeration.