Is Bertolli Olive Oil Any Good? A Critical Look at Quality and Origin

Bertolli is one of the most famous olive oil brands in the world and can be found in almost every supermarket in the Netherlands. But what about the quality and origin of this oil? In this article we investigate the background of Bertolli olive oil, its involvement in legal cases and whether it is really a good choice for consumers looking for authentic extra virgin olive oil.

🏷️ Origin and Labeling: “Made in Italy” or Deception?

Bertolli has faced lawsuits in the past over misleading labeling. In 2018, Deoleo, Bertolli’s parent company, agreed to pay $7 million in a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. The complaint centered on the “Imported from Italy” label, when the olives actually originated in countries including Spain, Greece and Tunisia, and were only bottled in Italy . As part of the settlement, Deoleo agreed to more clearly label the origin and change its packaging to better maintain quality.

🔬 Quality and Taste: What Do the Experts Say?

The quality of Bertolli olive oil is a subject of debate. Although some tests, such as that of Stiftung Warentest, gave Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil Originale a "good" rating of 2.5, there are also critical voices. Some experts note that the oil has little aroma and flavor, which may indicate a lack of freshness and complexity . In addition, Bertolli is known to blend oils from different origins, which can affect the consistency and quality.

⚖️ Lawsuits and Fraud in the Olive Oil Industry

Bertolli isn’t the only brand to have been involved in olive oil lawsuits. In 2015, several Italian producers, including Bertolli, were investigated for selling lower-quality oil as “extra virgin.” Italian authorities have since taken tougher measures to crack down on fraud in the olive oil industry.

🌍 PGI and the Complexity of Origin

The term "Protected Geographical Indication" (PGI) is intended to protect products that come from specific regions. However, in the olive oil industry, this designation is sometimes misused. Oils from different countries are mixed and sold under the label "Made in Italy", which can mislead consumers about the true origin of the product.

🛒 What Does This Mean for the Consumer?

For consumers looking for high-quality, authentic extra virgin olive oil, it is important to look critically at the origin and quality of the product. While Bertolli is a well-known and readily available option, there are questions about the transparency and consistency of their products. It is advisable to opt for olive oil with clear origin information, preferably from smaller producers who are transparent about their production process

✅ Conclusion: Is Bertolli Olive Oil Good?

Bertolli olive oil offers an affordable and accessible option for everyday use. However, for consumers who value authenticity, taste and transparency, there are better alternatives available. It is important to make a conscious choice and invest in olive oil that meets high quality standards and is honest about its origin.

Note: The information in this article is based on available sources and research as of May 2025. Consumers are advised to always consult the latest information and reviews when making purchasing decisions.