One tastes better, keeps more nutrients, and supports heart health.
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| | | I go through extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) like most people go through coffee. I dip bread in it, drizzle it on toast, toss it with pasta, use it as a base for practically every sauce I make. I just love the peppery, slightly bitter taste — it makes everything better. But beyond flavor, I can't be the only one wondering if there really is something special about EVOO compared to regular olive oil. Or is it just marketing hype? | | Below, registered dietitian Kelly Struck breaks down what sets EVOO apart, why it's worth reaching for when you can, and why you shouldn't stress if you stick with regular olive oil. | | | | | | | Glug, glug!
Tim Snaith
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |  | | Written by Tim Snaith
February 12, 2026 • 3 min read | | | |  | | | | Q: | What's so special about extra virgin olive oil? | | | A: | What makes EVOO stand out from regular olive oil lies in the process.
Olive oil is a heart-healthy, plant-based fat made by pressing olives. The difference between types of olive oil comes down to how much processing they undergo: - EVOO: Made from a single pressing process, with no heat or chemicals. It's the purest form with a bold, fresh flavor and retains the most nutrients and antioxidants.
- Virgin olive oil: Also made from a single pressing process, but often using riper olives which can result in a less vibrant taste. It does not meet the acidity and flavor profiles to be categorized as EVOO.
- Regular olive oil: A blend of refined oil (a process involving heat and chemicals) and some virgin oil, processed to remove imperfections. It's milder in flavor and lower in antioxidants.
Why choose EVOO? It has a rich flavor and retains more nutrients than other olive oils due to minimal processing. It's full in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamins E and K. Monounsaturated fats are linked to lower LDL (or "bad") cholesterol, improved heart health, and reduced inflammation. It's a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with longevity and a lower risk of chronic disease, improved mental health, and decreased cancer risk.
EVOO is a nutrient-packed kitchen staple that supports heart health and can add incredible flavor to your meals. However, EVOO is more expensive than other olive oils, so it's OK if it does not fit into your budget. Other types of olive oil are also great sources of healthy monounsaturated fats. | | | | | Kelly Struck, Registered Dietitian | | | Want to learn more about food, diets, cooking, or some other nutrition subject? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com and we'll look into it for you! (Heads up, we may use your response in an upcoming newsletter.) | | | | | | | | What we're digesting | | ☕ Coffee and myasthenia gravis: What to know. Does your morning cup help or hurt? | | 🩺 The 5 main types of Crohn's disease. Plus, where they show up in the digestive tract and how symptoms differ by location. | | ◀️ Is type 2 diabetes reversible? "Reversal" is more complicated than it sounds. | | 🌿 What is the strongest CBD oil? Our new guide to high potency options. | | | |   | | | Until next time, |  | Take care of yourself, and we'll see
you again soon! | | | | |  | | This edition was powered by | | background music. ️ | | | | |
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