Researchers from the Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) and the University of Zaragoza have developed an innovative formula for Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in spreadable form, created with more than 75% EVOO and a combination of plant products, thus ensuring that it is suitable for vegans. This new product is presented as a healthy alternative to butter and margarine.
The development of this spreadable product is based on the growing scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of EVOO. Extra virgin olive oil is known for its high content of unsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good cardiovascular health. This type of fat helps to reduce bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increase good cholesterol levels (HDL), which in turn decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A team of researchers conducted studies in animal models, specifically in mice prone to developing arteriosclerosis. The results were conclusive: those mice that consumed the new EVOO spread showed a significant reduction in vascular injury compared to those that consumed butter. This finding is mainly attributed to the high content of unsaturated fatty acids in EVOO, in contrast to the saturated fatty acids present in butter. Butter contains only 27% unsaturated fatty acids, while the EVOO in the spread formula contains 71% of these beneficial acids, including 62% oleic acid.
In addition to the high content of unsaturated fatty acids, the new EVOO spread is enriched with bioactive compounds characteristic of extra virgin olive oil, such as squalene and hydroxytyrosol. These compounds have powerful antioxidant properties, capable of reducing cellular oxidation and, therefore, decreasing the risk of vascular diseases and other chronic diseases related to oxidative stress.
The impact of the new spread was not limited to vascular health. Another interesting finding was the reduction in body weight in overweight or obese male mice that consumed the product for a prolonged period. After ten weeks of dietary intervention, these mice showed a significant decrease in their body weight, an effect that was maintained until the end of the experiment. This discovery suggests that regular consumption of this spreadable EVOO could be beneficial for individuals with overweight or obesity problems, helping them manage their weight more effectively.
The research team underlined the multiple benefits of EVOO in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, highlighting its central role in the Mediterranean diet, recognized worldwide for its positive effects on health. Incorporating EVOO in a spreadable formula facilitates its use in a variety of culinary preparations, making the adoption of healthy eating habits more accessible in different cultural contexts.
One of the most notable aspects of this new product is its suitability for vegans and vegetarians. Many margarines currently available on the market may contain traces of animal products or employ production processes that are not compatible with a vegan diet. Instead, the new EVOO spread has been developed exclusively with plant-based and organic products, such as EVOO and cocoa butter, without resorting to chemical hydrogenation processes that produce trans fatty acids, known for their harmful effects on health.
Another point in favor of this spread is that it does not contain preservatives, additives or allergens that are usually present in other types of industrial margarines and butters. This makes it a safe and healthy option for people with various food intolerances and allergies, as well as for those concerned about the consumption of highly processed foods.
In addition to the health and dietary benefits, the new EVOO spread also offers improvements in terms of preservation and storage. While conventional EVOO has a preferred consumption period,After approximately one year, EVOO in its new spreadable form can be preserved in optimal conditions for up to two years. This extended shelf life is especially advantageous in years of high production, allowing for more efficient management of resources and a reduction in food waste.
Adapting EVOO to more convenient forms for everyday use in the kitchen could help diverse populations adopt a healthier diet, aligned with the principles of the Mediterranean diet.
In conclusion, by offering a healthy, vegan-friendly alternative to butter and margarine, this product has the potential to improve cardiovascular health, aid in weight control, and provide antioxidant benefits to a broad spectrum of consumers. With its longer shelf life and its formulation free of additives and allergens, spreadable EVOO is positioned as a superior option in the healthy food market, aligning with current trends in responsible and sustainable consumption.
At Aceite del Campo we promote the culture of extra virgin olive oil as a gourmet product, which should be cared for and savoured like a good wine.
Reference article
Martínez-Beamonte, R., Barranquero, C., Gascón, S. et al. Effect of virgin olive oil as spreadable preparation on atherosclerosis compared to dairy butter in Apoe-deficient mice. J Physiol Biochem (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13105-024-01029-8
Important Note: aceitedelcampo.com promotes the consumption of extra virgin olive oil for its culinary qualities and health benefits. However, no medication or current treatment should be replaced without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
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