Title

For thousands of years, the olive and its precious oil have been important to human civilization and development, especially in the Mediterranean and Middle East. This course will begin with the history of olive change?How can olive oil production be sustainable in a future threatened by climate change?trees and their symbolic importance in ancient art, culture, and religion. We will explore methods of production, the chemical composition, and the biologically active compounds contained in the oil. Extra virgin olive oil is the oil of highest quality, but is it the healthiest oil one can consume? We will critically read studies that have led to these claims, particularly focusing on the Mediterranean diet. How does the chemistry of the oil affect its use in the preparation and tasting of foods? We will also consider uses of olive oil outside the kitchen and explore its ritual incorporation in the ancient world and its usefulness in the making of soap and cosmetics. What are the parameters by which oils are graded and evaluated? How can olive oil production be sustainable in a future threatened by climate change?