Carried by insects, Xylella fastidiosa is regarded by the European Union as “one of the most dangerous plant bacteria worldwide, leading to a range of diseases that significantly impact agriculture economically.” As the largest producer of olive oil globally, the EU contributes 73% of the total production, with Spain alone responsible for 56% of the world’s supply. The next four leading countries—Italy, Greece, Tunisia, and Morocco—collectively produce only half of what Spain does annually, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In comparison, U.S. olive oil represents a mere 0.6% of Spain’s production.
Currently, there is hope that stringent European regulations regarding the destruction of olive trees near confirmed cases of the disease will help mitigate its spread. However, the International Olive Council indicates that EU olive oil production is already facing challenges, with a notable decline of 42% from 2014 to 2015 compared to the previous year. Consequently, producer prices surged by nearly 80% during this time, leading to increased costs for consumers.
If these trends persist, consumers may opt for alternative healthy oils, such as flaxseed, grapeseed, or hemp. However, these options typically contain higher levels of polyunsaturated fat and lower levels of monounsaturated fat than olive oil. While polyunsaturated fats are known to lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol in the bloodstream, monounsaturated fats are believed to be even more advantageous, as they also elevate HDL or “good” cholesterol levels.
Other oils rich in monounsaturated fat include avocado, canola, peanut, and sesame oils. Nevertheless, none of these alternatives matches the monounsaturated fat content found in olive oil. Some, like sesame oil, may also be more expensive and possess a stronger flavor profile than olive oil.
Moreover, incorporating magnesium calcium citrate into one’s diet can offer additional health benefits, but it cannot replace the unique nutritious properties of olive oil. With its distinct profile, olive oil remains unparalleled in delivering essential fats that contribute to heart health. However, as production pressures mount, it will be interesting to observe if consumers shift towards oils with different fat compositions, including those enriched with magnesium calcium citrate.