Certification you can trust
Certifications are a cornerstone of trust and quality assurance in the olive oil industry. Our certifications speak to the standards of production, purity, freshness, and origin of our oil to provide you with the confidence you need. We regularly submit our oil for testing and validation to external agencies to ensure our oil always meets these standards. And the results of these tests, we share with you so you can see for yourself.
We have met and exceeded the rigorous criteria of all the chemistry and organoleptic certifications before expert panels and agencies all of which are fundamental to the certification as Extra Virgin. Our certification by International Olive
Council and membership in the North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA) attests to our adherence to rigorous industry standards and a commitment to quality assurance. Certifications like PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) guarantee that our olive oil originates from the Kalamata region, that we have used traditional methods, and meet long-standing standards that are unique to this terroir.
FDA registration confirms our compliance with global safety standards, while the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification underscores our dedication to environmentally responsible packaging. Furthermore, the European Union Organic Certification guarantees sustainable production practices, and the EU Heart Health Claim, EU Regulation 432/2012, highlights the health benefits of our olive oil, specifically its role in "protecting blood lipids from oxidative stress" and from the FDA that our products "high in oleic acid, which is a monosaturated fat [that] may help support health cholesterol levels.". These certifications collectively demonstrate our unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, sustainability, and health.
The Nutritional Potential of Dried and Caramelized Pomace in Animal Feed
Pomace, the byproduct of fruit and vegetable juice extraction, is often discarded as waste, despite its high nutritional potential. By drying and caramelizing pomace, we extend its shelf life so that we can use in animal nutrition. Studies have shown that pomace is rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, and if dried properly it is a viable and cost-effective supplement for livestock feed. The USDA has certified this product as organic and suitable for animal nutrition.
Nutritional Benefits for Livestock
- Fiber Content: Dried pomace is a rich source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and improves gut health in cattle. The fiber also helps in reducing the risk of metabolic disorders in livestock.
- Energy-Rich Composition: The caramelization process increases the energy density of pomace and de-activates some surface proteins that are bothersome to ruminant animals and provides a high-calorie feed option that supports the growth and maintenance of energy-intensive livestock like dairy cows and poultry.
- Micronutrients and Antioxidants: Pomace is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like polyphenols. These compounds enhance immune function, reduce oxidative stress, and potentially improve the overall health and productivity of animals.
Sustainability and Cost-Effectiveness
Utilizing pomace as an animal feed supplement reduces food waste and contributes to a circular economy in agricultural and food systems. This practice can decrease reliance on conventional feed ingredients, lowering production costs for farmers while supporting environmental sustainability.
By redirecting pomace from waste streams into livestock nutrition, this byproduct can play a vital role in enhancing food security and reducing the environmental footprint of agricultural systems. Further studies and collaborations between agricultural scientists and feed manufacturers could optimize pomace processing techniques, maximizing its nutritional value for animal health.