Council experts scrutinize olive oil testing methods

Experts who advise the International Olive Council on the chemical analysis of olive oil met in its Madrid headquarters last week to discuss issues including the results of recent trials of testing methods. Asked for details of the agenda and who would attend, an IOC spokeswoman said the meeting was strictly reserved for experts designated by IOC member countries. About 40 were expected to attend and no observers were permitted. The results of ongoing collaborative trials organized by the IOC – to check the reliability of, and to validate, tests – were discussed and the group reviewed new and existing methods of analysis designed to improve the quality and authenticity of olive oils and olive pomace oils.