CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent), primarily due to its **healthy fat profile** and minimal processing, balanced against its **saturated fat content**.
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL has a FoodScore of 53/100.
A strength is its NOVA class 2 status, indicating it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
The biggest concern is the 13.33g of saturated fat per 100g.
It performs similarly to generic extra virgin olive oil in its category.
Use in moderation as a source of healthy fats in cooking or as a dressing.
Scores +21 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Healthy fat profile+10
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (13.3g)-15
Why it scores 53
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL achieves a FoodScore of 53 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. The product receives a significant bonus for its healthy fat profile, contributing +10 points, as it is primarily composed of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, earns it an extra +8 points for being minimally processed. The ingredient list is straightforward, containing only "EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL." However, a notable penalty of -15 points is applied due to its saturated fat content, which is 13.33g per 100g. While extra virgin olive oil is generally considered a healthy fat, the amount of saturated fat present impacts its overall score. Compared to a generic unbranded extra virgin olive oil, CARAPELLI performs comparably, as the nutritional profile is very similar for this type of product.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in carapelli, 100% natural extra virgin olive oil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Healthy Fats
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which are beneficial for heart health. These fats can help support healthy cholesterol levels when used in place of saturated and trans fats. The product contains 93.33g of total fat per 100g, with the majority being unsaturated, contributing to its positive fat profile.
Minimally Processed Ingredient
As a NOVA class 2 food, CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is a minimally processed culinary ingredient. This means it has undergone little processing beyond extraction, which helps retain its natural nutrients and beneficial compounds. Choosing minimally processed ingredients like extra virgin olive oil can be a part of a balanced dietary pattern focused on whole foods.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
This extra virgin olive oil offers culinary versatility, making it easy to incorporate into various dishes. It can be used for sautéing, roasting, dressing salads, or as a finishing oil. Its use can enhance the flavor of meals while providing a source of dietary fats, allowing for a flexible approach to healthy cooking.
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent), primarily due to its healthy fat profile and minimal processing, balanced against its saturated fat content.
How to eat it
Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in many kitchens, commonly used for cooking, baking, and as a finishing oil. It's often consumed in small portions, such as a tablespoon for dressing or a few tablespoons for sautéing, providing a source of fats.
Use CARAPELLI extra virgin olive oil as a salad dressing base with vinegar and herbs to add healthy fats to your vegetables.
Incorporate it into marinades for lean proteins like chicken or fish to enhance flavor and moisture.
Drizzle a small amount over cooked vegetables, pasta, or soups just before serving to boost nutrient absorption and taste.
When cooking, consider its smoke point; it's generally best for medium-heat cooking or finishing dishes rather than high-heat frying.
Things to keep in mind
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is generally safe for consumption by most individuals. The ingredient list is simple, containing only "EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL," which means it is free from common additives like artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. There are no declared allergens in this product. Individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated fat, should be mindful of portion sizes, as olive oil is calorie-dense. While beneficial, excessive consumption of any oil can contribute to a high caloric intake. There are no specific interactions or populations that need to be particularly careful with this SKU beyond general dietary considerations.
Is CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL healthy?
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. It is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and is minimally processed. However, like all oils, it is calorie-dense and contains saturated fat, so portion control is important for a balanced diet.
How does CARAPELLI compare to other extra virgin olive oils?
CARAPELLI 100% NATURAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is nutritionally similar to other unbranded or branded extra virgin olive oils, such as Bertolli or Pompeian. The nutritional profile of extra virgin olive oil is generally consistent across brands, with slight variations depending on the olive variety and processing. Its NOVA class 2 status is typical for this category.
What does '100% NATURAL' mean for this product?
The '100% NATURAL' claim on CARAPELLI Extra Virgin Olive Oil aligns with its simple ingredient list: "EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL." This indicates the product contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives. It reflects that the oil is derived directly from olives through mechanical means, without chemical alteration.
What is a recommended serving size for extra virgin olive oil?
A typical serving size for extra virgin olive oil is 1 tablespoon (15ml). This amount provides approximately 120 calories and 14g of total fat, including about 2g of saturated fat. It's important to consider this when adding oil to meals to manage overall caloric and fat intake.
Can I use CARAPELLI Extra Virgin Olive Oil for high-heat cooking?
Extra virgin olive oil has a moderate smoke point, generally around 375°F (190°C). While it can be used for sautéing or light frying, it is not ideal for very high-heat cooking methods like deep-frying, where its beneficial compounds can degrade. For high-heat cooking, oils with higher smoke points, such as avocado oil, may be more suitable to preserve nutrient integrity.