In an era where quality and authenticity define consumer choices, Atsas Organic Olive Oil has emerged as a global leader in the production of premium extra virgin olive oil. Nestled in the heart of Cyprus’ sun-drenched Solea Valley, Atsas Organic Farm has mastered the art of producing high-phenolic olive oil through a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
What sets Atsas apart is its unparalleled commitment to excellence—evident in its multiple international awards and world record for polyphenol concentration. Beyond its superior taste and health benefits, Atsas embraces regenerative farming practices, ensuring that every drop of its organic olive oil is a testament to environmental responsibility and superior craftsmanship.
As climate change poses increasing challenges to agriculture worldwide, Atsas continues to push boundaries by leveraging cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly methods to preserve the purity and potency of its olive oil. In this exclusive interview, we explore what makes Atsas Organic Olive Oil a global benchmark, the secrets behind its success, and the vision driving its future.
What makes Atsas organic olive oil stand out from other products in the market?
Our premium and multi-awarded EVOOs hail from Atsas Organic Farm, which lies in the sun-soaked Solea Valley in Cyprus. Our unfiltered BIO EVOO has received world recognition for its premium quality. In FACT, IN 2016, it was recognized as the “healthiest olive oil in the world” and set an outstanding world record for phenol concentration. The location of our farm further adds to its distinctiveness, as it is situated in the UN buffer zone which has incontrovertibly contributed in retaining the land intact for numerous years. The unique soil and climate conditions, combined with our expertise and reliance on non-invasive techniques and regenerative farming have significantly contributions to the quality of our products. The production process, in its entirety, is completed in the controlled environment of our farm – a strategic decision aiming to safeguard the superior quality of the organic extra virgin olive oil we produce.
What are the benefits of having a high polyphenol content in olive oil?
Polyphenols, a class of antioxidant compounds, are commonly found in extra virgin olive oil. They are responsible for the characteristic spicy and bitter aftertaste of superior extra virgin olive oil, and are associated with certain health benefits. According to EU regulation 432/2012, olive oil polyphenols contribute to the protection of blood lipids from oxidative stress, beneficial results are ensured with the daily intake, at least 5 mg of hydroxytyrosol and its derivatives (e.g. oleu ropein complex and tyrosol) per 20 g of olive oil.
How do you ensure the quality of the organic olive oil you produce?
We ensure the quality of the organic olive oil through expertise, skill and passion for exceptional results.
We produce our multi-awarded Atsas Extra Virgin Olive Oil at our farm, using certified organic cultivation methods and pioneering agro-economy methods, which are essential for maintaining its premium organic quality. Every step, from farm to fork, is executed with the utmost care and attention.
Harvest time is a crucially important time of the year. This part of the production process is carried out in different stages, each tailored to the needs of each blend/variety. The harvest for the Atsas Silver and Gold editions begins at the end of August, while a month later the harvest for 7 Elies commences. Olives are handpicked with great care, so that bruising is avoided, and are promptly transported to our in-house mill. Timely processing is critical in preserving the oil’s superior quality.
Our technologically-advanced mill, which is conveniently and strategically located at the Atsas organic farm, incorporates a carefully designed system to ensure optimum results. At our organic farm we refrain from any practices that could compromise the excellence of our organic products, such as milling with heat or with the addition of water. Further, we pay careful attention to the milling process in its entirety and examine all other critical parameters that may affect various quality attributes.
Packaging and storage are also critical in safeguarding extra virgin olive oil’s premium quality and organoleptic properties. Therefore, 7 Elies is stored in an elegant dark brown bottle while the Silver, Gold and Limited Editions are stored in distinguishable and smart-looking black bottles, that protect the oil from light exposure and oxidation, which can lead to quality deterioration.
Can you tell us about the agricultural practices used to produce Atsas olive oil?
Our philosophy is rooted in the principles of agroecology, and our purpose is to create sustainable agricultural systems, which have the diversity, stability and resilience of a natural ecosystem. For these reasons, we employ organic and regenerative farming techniques and create agricultural micro-ecosystems which resemble nature, working in harmony with the environment. Our philosophy guides our actions and leads our efforts to produce organic extra virgin olive oil of superior quality.
At our farm, we also implement permaculture practices which play a fundamental part in our corporate philosophy, with our experts working along with nature to produce premium organic olive oil. The farm primarily grows olive trees, but at the same time it serves as a welcoming natural habitat for many supportive species that assist in the proliferation of biodiversity. An abundance of fresh herbs and a variety of trees, such as pomegranate, azaroles, carob trees and fig opuntias can be found on the farm, while wild flora is maintained for the sustainability of bees and other useful insects. Moreover, our organic farm acts as a friendly host to bird nests, which work as a natural pest control.
Further, our organic farm functions as a “carbon sink” which not only contributes to the fight against climate change through building soil, but it also results in the valuable enrichment of the soil with carbon. In an effort to mimic nature, the farm features an artificial lake, that collects rainwater for the irrigation of our olive trees.
What is the secret to your success that has led to winning so many awards?
Our commitment to excellence and the love and support we receive from our customers, fuels our passion to produce premium organic EVOOs, that stand out in the global market. We are thrilled our olive oil continues to reap international success and reconfirms that our commitment to making a high-quality EVOO is well appreciated around the globe.
How do the international awards you have received enhance your product’s market position?
Every award we receive from international competitions serves as a tangible testament to the dedication and meticulous work of our team.
It is a remarkable achievement that a Cypriot olive oil has earned prestigious awards in competitions around the world, placing it on the “global olive oil map.” Such recognition is invaluable in introducing our product to a wider audience and unlocking opportunities in the international market.
What are the main challenges you face in the organic olive oil industry?
The main challenge we face is related to the effects of climate change on the various phenological stages of olive trees and their growth (including the temporal shift in the flowering period etc). This is a widespread issue in Cyprus, affecting olive growers and the majority of crop producers who do not engage in greenhouse farming.
8.How do Cyprus’ climate and soil influence the quality of the olive oil you produce?
The climate and soil of Cyprus play a crucial role in determining the quality of the olive oil:
Climate: Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The high temperatures and abundant sunlight contribute to the development of olives with a high oil content and rich aromatic compounds. Additionally, the low humidity reduces the risk of diseases that could affect the quality of the fruit.
Soil: The soils of Cyprus are mainly clay-loam and limestone-based, providing good aeration and drainage. This supports the development of healthy root systems and influences the composition of the olive oil, enhancing its flavor, aroma, and stability.
Overall, the Cypriot environment creates ideal conditions for producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a rich taste, low acidity, and high polyphenol content, making it both flavorful and beneficial for health.
Very important is to refer to climate change and its effect to agriculture all over the world, that makes the production of organic high quality extra virgin olive oils more challenging.
What role does technology play in your production process?
Technology plays a crucial role in our olive oil production process, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and high-quality output.
Eco-Friendly Facilities – Our farm is equipped with state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly infrastructure that minimizes energy consumption and reduces waste.
Advanced Agroecological Methods – We utilize cutting-edge agricultural techniques that promote soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable farming practices.
Innovative Processing Techniques – The latest cold-press extraction methods ensure maximum retention of nutrients, antioxidants, and flavor in our olive oil.
By integrating technology into our farming and production methods, we maintain the highest standards while preserving the environment and enhancing the quality of our olive oil.
What are the key health benefits of Atsas Olive Oil?
Atsas Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil has been the subject for a number of scientific studies in recent years. The presence of polyphenols such as oleocanthal – potent antioxidants in plants – has been linked to a number of health benefits, including decreasing inflammation, regulating blood sugar levelsand potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer .
Atsas Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats* that help lower ‘bad cholesterol’ (LDL) and promote a good balance between HDL (‘good cholesterol’) and LDL (‘bad cholesterol’) cholesterol.
Further, it contains omega-3 fatty acids that help maintain normal blood cholesterol levels, and it is rich in polyphenols (antioxidants) that help protect blood lipids from oxidative stress.
How can an average consumer verify the quality of the olive oil they purchase?
An average consumer can verify the quality of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) by following a few simple steps:
Aroma and Flavor – High-quality EVOO has a distinct, fresh, and fruity aroma, accompanied by a slightly bitter and peppery taste. These characteristics indicate the presence of beneficial polyphenols and antioxidants.
Packaging – Consumers should avoid EVOO sold in clear plastic or glass bottles, as exposure to light can degrade its quality. Instead, they should choose oils packaged in dark glass or tin containers to ensure freshness.
Label Information – Checking for labels that indicate “extra virgin,” the harvest date, and the region of production can help ensure authenticity and quality.
Acidity Level – A low acidity level (below 0.8%) is a key indicator of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Certified Seals – Opting for olive oils with certification labels (such as PDO, PGI, or organic) ensures compliance with strict quality standards.
By paying attention to these factors, consumers can select a high-quality EVOO that retains its health benefits and authentic taste.
What is the best way to store olive oil to maintain its quality?
To keep an extra virgin olive oil fresh and tasty, it must be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Further, it must be kept in a dark, airtight container, protected from sudden changes in temperature and kept away from strong odours that can negatively impact the quality of EVOO.
How can customers purchase your products? Do you have direct sales channels or online platforms?
Our organic and multi-awarded Extra Virgin Olive Oils are available for purchase in the local market of Cyprus, and in selected organic product stores in Europe ,America and in Asia, and through online retailers, such as Amazon.de and gourmetgroceries, olympicco.com, alrossa.com.
Looking ahead, our objective is to ensure that consumers across the world can easily and efficiently have access to our premium and organic EVOOs.
Atsas Products:
Atsas Silver Organic high phenolic extra virgin olive oil
Atsas Gold blend Organic high phenolic extra virgin olive oil
Atsas Natural food supplement organic high phenolic extra virgin olive oil
7 Elies Organic high phenolic extra virgin olive oil
You can also find further information regarding Atsas Organic Products Cyprus in our social media:
Instagram: atsasorganicproductscyprus
Facebook: Atsas Organic Products Cyprus
Website: Atsas.com.cy
