Attention, Alanya! Products imported from China and sold as olive oil

Attention Alanya! Olive oil is being sold under the name of 'stone-pressed extra virgin olive oil' after being mixed with 'olive oil flavor' imported from China. Olive oil factory owner Babaoğlu made statements to Alanya Post Media about this issue.

Olive oil is known as one of the indispensable flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, but the sale of fake olive oil on the market has become a serious issue. By adding 'olive oil flavor' imported from China to cheap vegetable oils, they are sold as 'stone-pressed extra virgin olive oil', deceiving consumers and putting their health at risk. Cheap vegetable oils are made to taste and smell almost indistinguishable by adding olive oil flavor. These fake products are particularly sold online at low prices under the label 'stone-pressed natural extra virgin olive oil'. Olive oil factory owner Nurettin Babaoğlu states that this situation is creating a serious problem in the market.

OLIVE OIL PRICES AND FAKE PRODUCTS

Nurettin Babaoğlu states that the retail price of olive oil is approximately 8-10 euros in Europe and around 300 TL in Turkey. However, he notes that selling 'stone-pressed extra virgin olive oil' for 90 TL per liter on the internet is a clear indication that the product is not real olive oil. Babaoğlu says, "Selling at a third of the normal price may be understandable, but people who are not very familiar with olive oil may not realize it."

LACK OF CONTROL MECHANISMS

Babaoğlu says that the inadequacy of market control mechanisms allows the sale of fake olive oil. He emphasizes that to prevent this situation, olive oil sales locations and warehouses need to be continuously inspected. Babaoğlu added, "Strengthening inspections, removing fake products from the market, and protecting consumers are of great importance."

WARNING TO CONSUMERS

Babaoğlu, who mentioned that there are some points to consider when buying olive oil, said, “Especially, very low-priced products should be avoided, and reliable brands should be preferred. Attention should be paid to the information on labels, and if possible, the product certifications should be checked. Additionally, purchasing directly from trustworthy producers is one of the most effective ways to protect oneself from counterfeit products.”