Olive Oil Has a 'Low' Smoke Point. Should You Avoid Cooking With It?

You've probably heard that olive oil should be avoided when cooking at high temperatures because of its low smoke point. However, research suggests that unrefined extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is quite stable and safe to cook with.

Oxidative Stability Matters More Than Smoke Point

Instead of focusing on smoke point, experts say oxidative stability, or how easily an oil oxidizes and breaks down, is a better measure of quality and safety.

When this breakdown occurs, oils can produce toxic byproducts, called polar compounds, which have been shown to affect human health negatively.

However, a 2018 study found that extra virgin olive oil is much more stable than refined oils, forming fewer polar compounds when heated.

"Generally, unrefined oils have greater stability with fewer polar compo