An olive oil mill plays a crucial role in the production of this golden elixir,, which is a fundamental ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine and in many other cuisines around the world. But what exactly is an olive oil mill?
What is the function of an olive oil mill?
The word Almazara comes from the Arabic ‘al-ma’sara’, its name means “place where it is squeezed”. This nomenclature accurately describes the main function of an oil mill.
In simple terms, an olive mill is a facility, either industrial or artisanal, specialized in the transformation of fresh olives, the fruit of the olive tree, into olive oil through a multi-stage process.
How is the olive oil extraction process carried out in an olive mill?
The olive oil extraction process consists of five stages:
1. Olive reception: At this point, the freshly harvested olives arrive and their quality is verified, beginning the process of eliminating impurities.
2. Cleaning and washing: The olives are thoroughly washed to remove impurities, leaves and unwanted branches.
3. Grinding area: Once cleaning is complete, the olives are crushed with their pits, skins and pulp, creating a paste.
4. Oil extraction: The olive paste is processed to extract the oil, either by pressing or centrifugation.
5. Decantation and storage: The olive oil is separated from the water and other residues through a decanting process. Then, depending on the type of oil being produced, it is filtered to remove microparticles and give it a cleaner appearance. Finally, it is stored in tanks for subsequent packaging and distribution.
Oil mills can vary in size, from the smallest and most traditional to large industrial facilities. In addition, the quality of the olives and the extraction process influence the characteristics of the resulting olive oil.
In short, an olive oil mill is the place where olives are transformed into the prized olive oil we enjoy in our kitchens, playing a fundamental role in Mediterranean culture over the centuries.
Commitment and quality at Aceites ABASA
At Aceites ABASA, we are deeply committed to our environment and community, while maintaining the sustainability of our business.
Our goal is to create value at every stage of the supply chain and for all stakeholders involved, from cultivation to the table. We oversee everything from the production processes.
