CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its **healthy fat profile** despite its saturated fat content.
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL has a FoodScore of 53/100.
It offers a healthy fat profile, containing 0g of Omega-3 per 100g.
The main nutritional concern is its 13.33g of saturated fat per 100g.
This product is a NOVA class 2 (processed culinary ingredient), similar to generic olive oil.
Use in moderation due to its high calorie density of 800 calories per 100g.
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 EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL achieves a FoodScore of 53/100, 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, indicating a favorable ratio of unsaturated to saturated fats, which is a key component of the USDA Dietary Guidelines. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, earns it an 8-point bonus for being minimally processed. However, the presence of 13.33g of saturated fat per 100g leads to a 15-point penalty. While olive oil is known for its beneficial monounsaturated fats, the saturated fat content is still a factor in its overall score. The ingredient list, simply 'EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL', confirms its straightforward composition. Compared to a generic unbranded extra virgin olive oil, CARAPELLI's nutritional profile is very similar, as both are primarily composed of healthy fats with a small amount of saturated fat and no protein, fiber, or added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in carapelli extra virgin olive oil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Monounsaturated Fats
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is primarily composed of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are recognized for their role in a heart-healthy diet. These fats can help support healthy cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a balanced dietary pattern, replacing sources of saturated and trans fats. Incorporating this type of fat into meals contributes to overall dietary fat intake from beneficial sources, aligning with recommendations to prioritize unsaturated fats.
Minimally Processed Culinary Ingredient
As a NOVA class 2 food, CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is considered a minimally processed culinary ingredient. This means it has undergone minimal processing to extract the oil from olives, retaining many of its natural properties. Choosing minimally processed ingredients like EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL can be a part of a dietary pattern that emphasizes whole or less-processed foods, which is generally encouraged for nutritional quality.
Supports Nutrient Absorption
Fats like those found in CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL are essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). While this product itself does not contain these vitamins, consuming it with vegetables or other foods rich in these nutrients can enhance their bioavailability. This makes olive oil a valuable addition to meals, helping the body utilize other beneficial compounds from food.
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its healthy fat profile despite its saturated fat content.
How to eat it
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is commonly used as a cooking oil, a dressing for salads, or a finishing oil for various dishes. Its distinct flavor makes it suitable for both raw and cooked applications, but it is important to remember its calorie density.
Use CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL as a salad dressing base with vinegar and herbs to enhance vegetable intake.
Drizzle a small amount over cooked vegetables, pasta, or fish to add flavor and healthy fats.
Substitute butter with olive oil when sautéing or roasting vegetables to reduce saturated fat intake.
Measure portions carefully, as even a small amount of oil contributes significantly to daily calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is generally considered safe for consumption by the general population. The ingredient list is very simple, containing only 'EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL', which means there are no common food additives like artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives to be concerned about. It does not contain common allergens such as milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies to olives would need to avoid this product, but such allergies are uncommon. Due to its high calorie content (800 calories per 100g), individuals managing their weight should be mindful of portion sizes.
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It is considered a healthy fat source due to its high content of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. However, like all oils, it is calorie-dense and contains some saturated fat, so moderation is key.
How does CARAPELLI compare to other olive oil brands?
CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is nutritionally similar to many other extra virgin olive oil brands, such as Bertolli or Pompeian. Most pure extra virgin olive oils will have a comparable FoodScore, as their primary ingredient is the same and they share similar macronutrient profiles.
What does 'EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL' mean?
'EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL' signifies the highest quality and least processed olive oil. It is extracted by mechanical means without the use of solvents or excessive heat, preserving its natural flavor and beneficial compounds.
What is a typical serving size for CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL?
A typical serving size for CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is 1 tablespoon. This amount contributes a significant number of calories and fats to your meal, so it's important to measure your portions to align with your dietary goals.
Can I use CARAPELLI EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL for high-heat cooking?
While extra virgin olive oil has a moderate smoke point, it is generally better suited for lower-to-medium heat cooking or as a finishing oil. For very high-heat applications like deep frying, oils with higher smoke points, such as refined avocado oil or safflower oil, might be more appropriate to prevent nutrient degradation and off-flavors.