The Health Benefits of Corfu Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The Ancient Origins of Olive Oil in Corfu
Corfu, one of the most beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea, boasts a rich and ancient history intertwined with the cultivation of olive trees.
Historical Significance
Olive oil from wild olive trees has been a staple of Corfiot culture for Millenia, historical records showing that it was used for culinary, medicinal and religious purposes. Homer mentions Corfu's olive trees in The Odyssey composed in the 8th century BC.
However, when Corfu became a Venetian colony in 1386, it was the Venetians who bought thousands of olive tree seedlings for cultivation. The Venetians paid the inhabitants to plant them all over the island. By the 18th century, they were producing enough olive oil to keep the street lamps of Venice alight.
Today it is thought that Corfu has over 4 million wild and cultivated olive trees.
The Unique Characteristics of Corfiot Olive Oil
Historically Corfu was renowned for its vineyards not the quality of its olive oil. Corfu enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Corfu has a much higher rainfall count than many other mediterranean islands giving it a lush green landscape all year round. This climate, combined with the island's fertile soil, creates the perfect conditions for growing olive trees.
Cultivation and Harvesting
The cultivation of olive trees in Corfu is often carried out using traditional methods passed down through generations. Farmers typically use organic farming practices, avoiding synthetic fertilisers and pesticides to ensure the quality of the oil. The olives are usually harvested by hand, allowing for the careful selection of the best fruits.
Processing Methods
Once harvested, the olives are taken to local olive mills where they are pressed using cold extraction techniques. This method preserves the nutrients and flavours of the olives, resulting in extra virgin olive oil of exceptional quality. Cold pressing also ensures that the oil retains its high levels of antioxidants and healthy fats.
The Governor Olive Oil - where innovation and tradition meet
For over 100 years, the Dafnis Family has been producing olive oil on the island of Corfu. The youngest generation of the family, Spyros & George started a revolution by changing the olive oil production practices that turned a mediocre olive oil into a multi award winning high phenolic olive oil renowned the world over.
Careful tending and constant monitoring of the centenarian "lianolia" variety of olive tree, processing with lower than average temperatures, using the gentlest measures and using the latest technology produced exceptional olive oil. This is how The Governor EVOO was born - the first single variety from the ancient "lianolia" of Corfu.
Spyros and Geroge created their own Oleo Culture at the family's mill based in the historical village of Agios Mattheos.
Scientific Contributions
The Governor Olive Oil is, to this day, the olive oil brand with the most participation in scientific projects and research for the reduction in risk of many chronic diseases.
World Olive Centre for Health Awards 2024 awarded the Governor producers the Honorary distinction for their continuous contribution and participation in scientific research. Since 2011 they have participated in 10 international studies/clinical trials published in prestigious peer reviewed scientific journals such as Nutrients, Cancers, Plos one, MDPI. These studies took place in research centres and universities in Greece and the US, such as Hunter College in New York, the University of Minnesota, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University and, of course, EPA and the University of Peloponnese.
Health Benefits of Olive Oil
Olive oil is the key component of the Mediterranean diet, which has been associated with a lower risk of various chronic diseases. It is extremely Rich in Antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. More...
Heart Health
The high content of monounsaturated fats in olive oil, particularly oleic acid, has been shown to improve heart health by lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels.
Regular consumption of olive oil can help prevent cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and hypertension.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The abundance of polyphenols in olive oil also possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is a key driver of many serious diseases, including heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Olive oil can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of these conditions.
Oleocanthal is the most important health-promoting polyphenol in extra virgin olive oil, and The Governor contains one of the highest concentrations of Oleocanthal ever recorded. The Governor is scientifically proven to contain up to ten times more polyphenols than your average olive oil. Polyphenols are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, gut supporting, anti-diabetic, cancer-fighting molecules. They protect the heart, lower bad cholesterol, and have even been shown to improve brain function.
Supports Digestive Health
Olive oil aids in digestion by promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes. It also has a mild laxative effect, which can help prevent constipation. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil can help protect the digestive tract.
Culinary Uses of Corfiot Olive Oil
Corfiot olive oil is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Its robust flavour enhances both simple and complex dishes. Its high polyphenol content is ideal for cooking, frying.
It retains its nutritional value and flavour even at high temperatures, making it a healthy choice for sautéing vegetables, frying meats, or preparing stir-fries.
Salad Dressings and Marinades
The rich, fruity flavour makes it a perfect base for salad dressings and marinades. It pairs well with vinegar, lemon juice, and a variety of herbs and spices for a simple dressing. Using olive oil in dressings and marinades not only enhances flavour but also adds nutritional benefits to your meals.
Dipping and Drizzling
For simple yet delicious appetiser, serve Corfiot olive oil with fresh bread for dipping. Drizzling it over roasted vegetables, grilled meats, greek yoghurt, salads, pasta to elevate the flavours of your dish.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
The production of olive oil in Corfu is often carried out with a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices. Many producers are committed to environmentally friendly farming techniques and fair labour practices.
Organic Farming
A significant proportion of olive oil producers in Corfu adhere to organic farming standards. This means avoiding harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, which not only benefits the environment but also ensures that the oil is free from chemical residues.
Fair Trade and Local Support
By purchasing Corfiot olive oil, consumers can support local farmers and contribute to the local economy. Many producers operate on a small scale, focusing on quality rather than quantity, and employ fair labour practices to ensure that workers are treated ethically and paid fairly.
Olive oil from Corfu stands out due to its rich history, unique characteristics, and numerous health benefits. Its production is deeply rooted in tradition, and its quality is enhanced by the island's ideal climate and soil conditions. Whether used in cooking, as a dressing, or simply enjoyed on its own, Corfiot olive oil offers a delightful and nutritious addition to any diet.