CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **healthy fat profile** which is partially offset by its saturated fat content.
CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL has a FoodScore of 53/100 (Decent).
A key strength is its classification as NOVA 2, indicating it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
The primary nutritional concern is its 13.33g of saturated fat per 100g.
This product is nutritionally similar to generic extra virgin olive oil, with no significant differences in macronutrients.
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 ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL receives a FoodScore of 53 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects its nature as a processed culinary ingredient (NOVA class 2), which earns it a bonus for being minimally processed. The product's primary ingredient, organic extra virgin olive oil, contributes to a healthy fat profile, providing a significant bonus to its score. However, this is partially counteracted by the presence of 13.33g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a penalty according to dietary guidelines. As a pure oil, it contains no protein, fiber, or added sugar, and is free of sodium, which prevents penalties in those areas. Micronutrient content is negligible, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, B12, and folate. Compared to a generic unbranded extra virgin olive oil, CARAPELLI's nutritional profile is essentially identical, as both are composed solely of extra virgin olive oil and share the same macronutrient breakdown. The 'organic' designation does not impact the nutritional score but refers to agricultural practices.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in carapelli organic extra virgin olive oil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Healthy Fats
CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is composed almost entirely of fat, with a significant portion being monounsaturated fatty acids. These fats are recognized for their role in a balanced diet, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a healthy eating pattern. The extra virgin olive oil in this product provides a concentrated source of these beneficial fats, making it a valuable addition for those looking to increase their intake of monounsaturated fats.
Minimally Processed Culinary Ingredient
This product is classified as NOVA class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This classification indicates that it has undergone minimal processing, primarily mechanical extraction, to separate it from its original food source. Unlike ultra-processed foods, CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL retains many of the natural characteristics of the olive, offering a less altered fat source for cooking and dressing. Its simplicity in processing is a key advantage for those prioritizing whole or minimally processed foods.
Versatile for Flavor and Nutrient Absorption
Extra virgin olive oil, including this CARAPELLI product, is a versatile ingredient that enhances the flavor of many dishes. Beyond taste, the fats present in olive oil can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from other foods in a meal. Using a small amount of olive oil with salads or cooked vegetables can therefore contribute to better nutrient utilization from those foods, making it a functional component of a meal rather than just a flavor enhancer.
CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its healthy fat profile which is partially offset by its saturated fat content.
How to eat it
Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in many cuisines, commonly used for dressing salads, finishing dishes, and light sautéing. A typical serving is 1 tablespoon, which provides a concentrated source of calories and fats.
Use CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL as a dressing for salads with vinegar and herbs to enhance vegetable intake.
Drizzle a small amount over cooked vegetables, grilled fish, or whole-grain pasta to add healthy fats and flavor.
Substitute butter with olive oil when sautéing or roasting vegetables to reduce saturated fat intake.
Measure your portions, as olive oil is calorie-dense; a tablespoon can add 120 calories to a meal.
Things to keep in mind
CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is generally considered safe for consumption by most individuals. As a pure oil, it does not contain common allergens such as milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. There are no artificial additives, colors, or preservatives in the ingredient list, which consists solely of organic extra virgin olive oil. Individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated fat, should be mindful of portion sizes. While olive oil is a source of healthy fats, excessive consumption can contribute to a high caloric intake. There are no specific interactions or populations that need to be particularly cautious with this product beyond general dietary considerations for fat intake.
Is CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL healthy?
CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL can be part of a healthy diet. It is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. However, it is also calorie-dense and contains saturated fat, so portion control is important. Its FoodScore of 53/100 reflects a 'Decent' nutritional profile.
How does CARAPELLI compare to other olive oil brands?
CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL is nutritionally comparable to many other extra virgin olive oil brands, such as Bertolli or Pompeian. Most pure extra virgin olive oils will have a similar macronutrient profile and FoodScore, as they are composed of the same fundamental ingredient. The 'organic' certification on this CARAPELLI product refers to its cultivation methods, not a significant difference in nutrient content.
What does 'organic' mean for this olive oil?
The 'organic' label on CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL indicates that the olives were grown and processed according to organic farming standards. This means no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers were used. While it doesn't change the nutritional content of the extra virgin olive oil, it reflects a commitment to specific agricultural practices.
What is a recommended daily intake for olive oil?
There is no single recommended daily intake for olive oil, as it depends on individual dietary needs and overall fat intake. However, for general health, the USDA Dietary Guidelines suggest that most fat intake should come from unsaturated sources. A common serving size is 1 tablespoon, which provides about 120 calories and 14g of fat. Moderation is key due to its calorie density.
Can I use CARAPELLI ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL for high-heat cooking?
Extra virgin olive oil has a relatively low smoke point compared to some other cooking oils. While suitable for light sautéing or baking, it is generally not recommended for high-heat frying or deep-frying. For high-heat applications, oils with higher smoke points, such as avocado oil or refined sunflower oil, might be more appropriate to prevent the oil from burning and producing undesirable compounds.