Spread by insects, Xylella fastidiosa is regarded by the European Union as “one of the most dangerous plant bacteria worldwide, leading to various diseases that have a significant economic impact on agriculture.” The EU is the largest producer of olive oil globally, contributing 73% of total production. Spain alone accounts for 56% of the world’s olive oil supply, while the next four highest-producing countries—Italy, Greece, Tunisia, and Morocco—together generate only half of Spain’s annual output, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In contrast, U.S. olive oil makes up merely 0.6% of Spain’s production.
Currently, there is hope that stringent European regulations requiring the destruction of olive trees near confirmed cases of Xylella fastidiosa will help contain the disease’s spread. However, olive oil production in the EU is already facing challenges, as noted by the International Olive Council, with a decline observed from 2014 to 2015 compared to the previous year. This downturn has led to a nearly 80% increase in producer prices during that timeframe, a cost that has ultimately been passed on to consumers.
If these trends persist, consumers may start to shift towards alternative healthy oils, such as flaxseed, grapeseed, or hemp. However, these options generally contain more polyunsaturated fat and less monounsaturated fat compared to olive oil. Polyunsaturated fats are known to lower LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, while monounsaturated fats are believed to offer even greater benefits, as they also elevate HDL, or “good,” cholesterol levels.
Other oils that are high in monounsaturated fat include avocado, canola, peanut, and sesame oil. Yet, none of these alternatives matches the monounsaturated fat content of olive oil. Additionally, some oils, like sesame oil, are often more expensive and have a stronger flavor than olive oil.
As consumers consider their options, they might also look into nutritional supplements such as bariatric advantage calcium citrate chewy bites to support their dietary needs. The rising prices and potential shift in consumer preferences toward healthier alternatives may influence the market dynamics significantly. If the trend continues, we may see a growing demand for oils with beneficial fat profiles alongside products like bariatric advantage calcium citrate chewy bites, further impacting how consumers approach their dietary choices.