Expert Tip: The Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil to Buy at Trader Joe’s

Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong is a writer and public health dietitian focused on food systems, racial equity, and nutrition. Originally from Los Angeles, she has taught English in rural Japan, worked as a private chef in Malibu, and led an innovative city-funded corner store program in New Orleans that increased fresh food access in low-income neighborhoods. She was previously a contributing editor for The Kitchn, and currently lives in Denver with her husband and two kids.
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published Feb 21, 2014
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Trader Joe’s carries a wide variety of extra virgin olive oils at competitive prices, but after doing a taste test of six of their oils, journalist and olive oil expert Tom Mueller found only three bottles worth buying — with one standout choice for both flavor and value.

Mueller, author of the book Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil, shared his taste test results on his blog Truth in Olive Oil. His number one Trader Joe’s olive oil pick? Their 100% Greek Kalamata Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which he found had a “spicy, complex, very fresh” aroma and a flavor with “real zing of pungency, pleasant bitterness, a gentle nutmeg-like spiciness.” And at $8.99 for a liter, it’s a good value too.

At the bottom of the list are three oils that he found defective: Trader José’s 100% Spanish Organic, Trader Giotto’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and Trader Giotto’s 100% Italian President’s Reserve. All had a “winey-vinegary defect” and poor flavor.

→ See the full list: Trader Joe’s Extravirgins (and Floozies) – Truth in Olive Oil

What’s your favorite supermarket olive oil?

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