The olive oil market - United Kingdom

Olive oil is an edible oil extracted from the fruit of the olive tree (i.e. olives), typical of the Mediterranean diet. Depending on the acidity of the oil and the extraction mechanisms, there are different types of olive oil, among the best known: extra virgin olive oil, virgin olive oil, and refined olive oil. Globally, the olive oil market is dominated by Europe, where Spain, Greece and Italy in particular consume and produce a significant quantity. The United States is the third largest consumer market after Spain and Italy In the United Kingdom, all olive oil is imported. In addition, about 40% of this oil would be used in processed products, while the rest would be used as bottled oil.[olivemarket] The major players in the global olive oil market are Deoleo, Grupp Salov, Borges International Group, Sovena, Ybarra, Del Monte Food and Cargill. The British consumer is increasingly interested in olive oil, and we are currently seeing a slow shift from traditional fats (butter) to olive oil. Mercacei reveals that some consumers are also showing a greater interest in extra virgin oil because of its health benefits.