How Are Olives Processed to Make Olive Oil? Step-by-Step Explanation
Discover how olives are transformed into olive oil through harvesting, crushing, malaxation, centrifugation, and bottling processes.
602 views
Olives are harvested and washed before being crushed into a paste. The paste is then kneaded to encourage oil droplets to form. This mixture undergoes a process called malaxation, where it is slowly churned. Finally, the paste is placed in a centrifuge to separate the oil from the water and solid residue. The oil is then filtered and bottled, producing the olive oil that we use daily.
FAQs & Answers
- What is malaxation in olive oil production? Malaxation is the process of slowly churning olive paste to encourage oil droplets to combine, improving oil extraction.
- How does a centrifuge help in making olive oil? A centrifuge separates olive oil from water and solid residues by spinning the olive paste at high speed.
- Why are olives crushed before making olive oil? Crushing olives releases the oil contained in the fruit's cells, creating a paste that facilitates oil extraction.