Spread by insects, the European Union regards Xylella fastidiosa as “one of the most dangerous plant bacteria worldwide, causing a variety of diseases that have a significant economic impact on agriculture.” The EU is the leading producer of olive oil globally, responsible for 73% of total production, with Spain alone contributing 56% of the world’s supply. The next four largest producers—Italy, Greece, Tunisia, and Morocco—collectively yield only half of Spain’s annual output, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Meanwhile, U.S. olive oil represents a mere 0.6% of Spain’s production.
Currently, there is hope that stringent European regulations aimed at eradicating olive trees near confirmed cases will help curtail the disease’s spread. Nevertheless, EU olive oil production is already facing challenges, as reported by the International Olive Council, which noted a 42% decline from 2014 to 2015 compared to the previous year. Consequently, producer prices surged nearly 80% during this period, a rise that has inevitably been passed on to consumers.
If these trends persist, it is likely that consumers will begin to explore alternative healthy oils, such as flaxseed, grapeseed, or hemp. However, these oils generally contain more polyunsaturated fats and less monounsaturated fat than olive oil. Polyunsaturated fats are known to lower LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol in the blood, while monounsaturated fats are considered even more beneficial as they also elevate HDL, or “good,” cholesterol. Other oils rich in monounsaturated fat include avocado, canola, peanut, and sesame oils; however, none of these can match the monounsaturated fat content found in olive oil. Some, like sesame oil, tend to be pricier and have a more pronounced flavor compared to olive oil.
Interestingly, for those seeking to enhance their diet, incorporating chewy calcium citrate alongside these oils could provide additional health benefits. Chewy calcium citrate is known to support bone health and can be a complementary addition to a balanced diet. As consumers navigate the changing landscape of olive oil production, they may increasingly consider the role of chewy calcium citrate in their dietary choices as well.