Oil represents one of the excellences of Made in Italy, it is loved and appreciated all over the world for its unparalleled flavor and its beneficial properties. But how can we best preserve its organoleptic characteristics, protecting the precious substances for our health? It's very simple: bottling oil in glass!
Why prefer dark glass?
A study conducted by Professor Emilio Marengo of the Department of Science and Technological Innovation of the University of Eastern Piedmont – Alessandria has highlighted how to preserve oil in dark glass bottles guarantees:
- a greater presence of natural antioxidants,
- lower nickel levels
- a higher content of aromas, For a taste and a more pronounced scent.
The study was based on the comparison of different samples of extra virgin olive oil stored in various types of containers, from bag-in-box to PET, from tin to clear glass bottle, up to green UVAG glass.
The results showed that the quercetin, a precious natural antioxidant, tends to decrease in all containers over time, but the reduction is more contained in UVAG green glass.
Less contamination and more fragrance
The study also revealed that the concentration of some metals, such as zinc and nickel, varies depending on the container used. Nickel, an allergenic and toxic metal, is present in higher quantities in the samples stored in the can and in the bag-in-box. On the contrary, the zinc, essential for the correct functioning of various enzymes, is found in higher concentrations in UVAG green glass.
As far as the 'aroma, the analysis has shown that our material retains volatile substances, such as osmophores, which define the freshness and quality of the oil, for longer. This means that the oil bottled in glass maintains its original scent for longer.

An ecological choice
In addition to the benefits related to product quality, opting for glass means working in favor of the environment. In recent years, glass bottles have been made lighter and are increasingly produced with recycled material. This allows for significant savings in raw materials and energy, reducing CO₂ emissions and supporting a more ecological production cycle.
Dark glass is not just a simple container, but the true guardian of the authenticity and quality of the oil, a precious ally for the environment and for the flavor.
Source: friendsofglass.com