INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES FOR ENHANCING OLIVE OIL EXTRACTION

Olive oil, a staple of Mediterranean diets, is renowned for its health benefits and unique flavor profile. Traditional extraction methods, primarily mechanical pressing, have long been the standard. However, these methods often suffer from low efficiency and inconsistent oil quality. As global demand for premium olive oil grows, innovative extraction techniques are emerging to improve yield, sustainability, and product quality. This article examines four cutting-edge methods—ultrasound-assisted extraction, pulsed electric field extraction, high-pressure processing, and enzyme-assisted extraction—discussing their mechanisms, benefits, and limitations.