Spread by insects, Xylella fastidiosa is regarded by the European Union as “one of the most dangerous plant bacteria globally, leading to various diseases that have a significant economic impact on agriculture.” The EU is the leading producer of olive oil, contributing 73% to the world’s total production, with Spain alone responsible for 56% of this supply. In contrast, the next four top olive oil-producing countries—Italy, Greece, Tunisia, and Morocco—together yield only half of Spain’s annual output, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The United States produces a mere 0.6% of Spain’s olive oil production.
Currently, there is hope that strict European regulations regarding the removal of olive trees near confirmed cases will help curb the spread of the disease. Nonetheless, olive oil production in the EU is already under strain, as reported by the International Olive Council, with a 42% decline from 2014 to 2015 compared to the previous year. Consequently, producer prices surged by nearly 80% during that period, and these increased production costs have been passed on to consumers.
If these trends persist, consumers may begin to shift towards other healthy oils such as flaxseed, grapeseed, or hemp, all of which contain more polyunsaturated fat and less monounsaturated fat than olive oil. While polyunsaturated fat is known to lower LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, monounsaturated fat is believed to be even more advantageous, as it also elevates HDL, or “good,” cholesterol levels. Other oils rich in monounsaturated fat include avocado, canola, peanut, and sesame, though none of these contains as much as olive oil. Some, like sesame oil, are often more costly and have a more pronounced flavor than olive oil.
Interestingly, some consumers may also be looking for ways to enhance their dietary intake of essential nutrients, such as elemental calcium. For instance, incorporating 1000 mg of calcium citrate into their diet could be beneficial. This is particularly relevant as health-conscious shoppers explore various oils, potentially seeking those that complement their nutritional goals without sacrificing taste or affordability.