Olive Oil-Infused Coffee is the Hottest New Drink on the Block
Coffee drinking is thought to have originated in Ethiopia and spread to the Middle East and Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries. While it was first noticed for its energizing effects, today, we have found many other reasons to enjoy the roasted drink. Flavored coffee has brought a new wave of excitement to the ancient industry, and brands are becoming more and more experimental with blended brews.
Adding Olive Oil to Coffee
In 2023, Starbucks launched a new drink called an “Oleato”. It mixes arabica coffee and cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil from Partanna olives. The drink is available in warm and cold variations, which have been generally well-received by the chain’s customers.
The company chose Partanna olives for their nutty, buttery flavor that pairs well with sweet coffee-based drinks. While the combination may seem strange to some, many Italians enjoy their extra-virgin olive oil crudo or raw – usually drizzled over salads, vegetables, or bread. So, why add it to coffee? Besides giving the drink a richer, creamier flavor, olive oil has many health benefits.
The Health Benefits of Olive Oil
Olive oil has been praised as a healthy condiment to add to almost anything and is a major component of the Mediterranean diet. It’s a source of monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, which studies show can reduce inflammation in the body. It also contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy brain functioning.
It’s also rich in antioxidants, which fight free radicals in the body. These molecules prevent bad cholesterol from oxidizing in the blood, which can prevent clotting. Hundreds of scientific studies have linked consuming olive oil to better cardiovascular health. Eating it regularly has been proven to reduce your risk of heart disease, strokes, and high blood pressure.
The Health Benefits of Coffee
Coffee is known for its high caffeine content, which can boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. While it is a stimulant that one should enjoy in moderation, caffeine has been shown to increase athletic and mental performance in multiple scientific studies.
What’s more, coffee contains antioxidants that protect against degenerative diseases. While additional research is required, some studies have linked moderate coffee consumption with better brain health. These studies suggest drinking coffee could protect against dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
Other studies have linked coffee to a decreased risk of developing type 2 Diabetes. These studies found that the coffee compounds support the pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production.
So, coffee and olive oil could be a powerful combination for better health.
Choosing the Right Olive Oil Matters
While Starbucks’ Oleato may be delicious, not all store-bought olive oil brands will offer the same results. The age, origin, and quality of the olive oil you choose will impact its overall flavor. Extra virgin olive oil typically has a stronger flavor that may have botanical or peppery notes. It’s also cold-pressed, which preserves many of the flavor molecules and healthful plant compounds found in the olives themselves.
Create Innovative Coffee-Based Drinks With Advanced Biotech
Olive oil is not the only way to enhance your coffee offering. Creating flavorful coffee blends starts with high-quality ingredients and ends with daring combinations. With Advanced Biotech’s premium natural flavorings range, anything is possible. Try our organic cayenne pepper extract to create a brew with a bite or our bright orange essence for a refreshing morning blend.
We are fans of innovation and would love to support you on your coffee-creation journey. Please contact us for more information.