Does our extra virgin olive oil contain phthalates?Updated 22 days ago
We can confirm that all our Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been independently tested and shown to be free from phthalates. Reach out to our Customer Support team here if you'd like a copy sent over.
You might also find this background on phthalates useful.
Phthalates 101
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals used as plasticisers. They're commonly found in plastics, and sometimes in the materials used to process and store oils. They're much more likely to turn up in high-temperature refined oils, including lower-quality olive and avocado oils, and in oils kept in plastic bottles.
Health Risks
- Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone function.
- They can lower testosterone levels and reduce fertility in men.
- They're xenoestrogens, which means the body can mistake them for sex hormones, and they can block natural oestrogen uptake, affecting fertility and menstrual cycles in women.
- They can be linked to thyroid dysfunction.
- They're particularly harmful to unborn babies and children.
- They're associated with lower birth weight, altered brain development, and possible behavioural issues.
- They can increase the risk of congenital disabilities, particularly in male reproductive organs.
- They're obesogenic chemicals, meaning they can increase the risk of obesity.
- They can increase the risk of breast cancer.
- They can worsen metabolic syndrome.
What We'd Recommend
Always choose high-quality, cold-pressed oils stored in dark glass bottles. Where you can, pick an independently tested range like ours, which you'll find here on our website.