Spread by insects, Xylella fastidiosa is deemed by the European Union as “one of the most dangerous plant bacteria worldwide, causing various diseases with significant economic repercussions for agriculture.” The EU stands as the largest producer of olive oil globally, accounting for 73% of the total output, with Spain alone contributing 56% to the world’s olive oil supply. The next four leading countries—Italy, Greece, Tunisia, and Morocco—collectively produce only half of Spain’s annual volume, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In contrast, U.S. olive oil represents a mere 0.6% of Spain’s production.
Currently, there is hope that stringent European regulations regarding the destruction of olive trees near confirmed cases will help mitigate the spread of this disease. However, according to the International Olive Council, EU olive oil production is already under strain, having plummeted by 42% from 2014 to 2015 compared to the previous year. Consequently, producer prices surged nearly 80% during this timeframe, a cost increase that has been transferred to consumers. If these trends persist, it is likely that consumers might turn to other healthy oils, such as flaxseed, grapeseed, or hemp. Nonetheless, these alternatives contain higher levels of polyunsaturated fat and lower levels of monounsaturated fat compared to olive oil. Polyunsaturated fats are known to reduce LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol, while monounsaturated fats are considered even more beneficial, as they also elevate HDL, or “good,” cholesterol.
Other oils rich in monounsaturated fats include avocado, canola, peanut, and sesame oil. However, none of these alternatives matches the monounsaturated fat content of olive oil. Some, like sesame oil, are often more expensive and possess a stronger flavor than olive oil.
In light of these developments, consumers might also consider incorporating liquid calcium magnesium vitamin D supplements into their diets for added health benefits. As people look for healthier options, the demand for liquid calcium magnesium vitamin D may rise, alongside shifts in oil preferences. Ultimately, if the challenges facing olive oil production continue, the market may see an increase in the popularity of oils with diverse health benefits, including those enriched with liquid calcium magnesium vitamin D.