At Zimms Organics, every bottle of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) tells a story—a story of passion, tradition, and quality. Join us as we take you on a journey from the olive groves to your kitchen table, revealing the intricate process that transforms olives into your COOK & HEAL olive oil.
The Grove
Nurturing the Trees
The journey begins in the soils of California, where your olive trees grow under the care of dedicated local farmers. These trees, some of which are decades old, are carefully pruned and nurtured to ensure they produce the highest quality olives. The unique climate and soil specific to Northern (HEAL) and Central California (COOK) conditions contribute to the distinct flavor profile of your olives.
The Harvest
Timing is everything when it comes to harvesting olives. Your local farmers closely monitor the ripeness of the fruit, waiting for the perfect moment when the olives are just beginning to turn from green to purple. This stage, known as veraison, ensures the olives are packed with polyphenols—compounds that give your EVOO its robust flavor and numerous health benefits.
Harvesting is a labor of love. The olives are carefully shaken off the branches into nets to avoid bruising the delicate fruit, a practice that maintains the integrity and quality of the olives. The harvest usually happens in a few waves so the farmers can ensure that the olives are washed and pressed within 12 hours of being picked from the branches.
The Mill
Washing & Cold Pressing
Once harvested, the olives are transported to the mill, where they will be carefully washed and checked for quality. After the olives endure the washing process, they are ready for the cold press. This method involves grinding the olives into a paste and then pressing them to extract the oil through a slow centrifugal machine without the use of heat. Cold pressing preserves the olives' natural flavors and nutrients, resulting in a superior quality of product.
Quality Control
At Zimms Organics, quality control is paramount. Each batch of olive oil is rigorously tested to ensure it meets the highest of standards. All of our olive oil is consistently checked for flavor and aroma during the natural filtering process (which takes 6-8 weeks from harvest). Once the olive oil is naturally filtered, small samples are sent to labs for testing acidity levels (less than 0.8% to be called extra virgin olive oil), polyphenol levels and heavy metal testing. We also work with the CCOF who checks the farms and facilities annually for certified organic practices. This annual testing guarantees that only the best oil makes it into your bottles.
The Bottling
Crafting the Perfect Bottle
Once the oil has passed the stringent quality checks, it is ready to be bottled. Your bottles are made from recycled glass and are painted with dark matte organic ink, which is designed to protect the oil from light and air, preserving its freshness and flavor. Each bottle is sealed with a biodegradable film to protect the olive oil from oxidization and to ensure that the oil remains pristine until it reaches your kitchen.
The Artisans
Dedication to Craft
Behind every bottle of Zimms Organics EVOO is a team of artisans dedicated to their craft. From the local family farmers who tend to the olive trees to the dedicated millers who carefully extract the oil, each step of the process is carried out with precision and passion. Their expertise and commitment are what make your olive oil so special.
A Labor of Love
Producing high-quality olive oil is not just a job—it's a way of life. Your artisans take pride in their work, knowing that they are creating a product that will bring joy, health and nourishment to families around the world. Their dedication is reflected in every drop of your EVOO.
The Table
Bringing It Home
The journey of your olive oil concludes in your home. Whether you’re taking a shot of HEAL daily for gut support and wellness, drizzling over a fresh salad, sauteing vegetables, or simply enjoying it with a piece of delicious bread, you are experiencing the culmination of months of hard work and dedication.
A Taste of Tradition
With each taste of Zimms Organics EVOO, you are savoring the flavors of the California groves and the artisanal craftsmanship that went into producing it. Your olive oil is more than just a cooking ingredient—it’s a connection to a rich tradition and a testament to the artistry of olive oil production.
Enjoy the Journey
We invite you to explore the world of Zimms Organics EVOO and discover the difference that quality and craftsmanship can make. From the California groves to your table, every bottle is a celebration of nature’s bounty and human ingenuity. Enjoy the journey.
Subscribe & Save
Never run out of your favorite Zimms Organics EVOO again. Head over to the COOK or HEAL large bottle product pages and check out the subscription options. You'll save 25% on any subscription, and you can cancel anytime! Subscriptions can be scheduled for every 15 or 30 days, ensuring you always have fresh, high-quality olive oil on hand. Your health and taste buds will thank you!
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