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17.12.2013 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
338/31
COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) No 1348/2013
of 16 December 2013
amending Regulation (EEC) No 2568/91 on the characteristics of olive oil and olive-residue oil and
on the relevant methods of analysis
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
(6) In
order
to
allow
a
period
of
adjustment
to
the
new
rules, to give time for introducing the means of
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European
applying them and to avoid disturbance to commercial
Union,
transactions, the amendments made by this Regulation
should apply as from 1 March 2014. For the same
Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 of
reasons, provision should be made for olive oil and
22 October 2007 establishing a common organisation of agri
olive-pomace oils that are legally manufactured and
cultural markets and on specific provisions for certain agri
labelled in the Union or legally imported into the
cultural products (Single CMO Regulation) (
Union and released for free circulation before that date

1 ), and in particular
Article 113(1)(a) and points (a) and (h) of the first paragraph of
to be marketed until all stocks are used up.
Article 121, in conjunction with Article 4 thereof,
(7) The
measures
provided
for
in
this
Regulation
are
in
Whereas:
accordance with the opinion of the Management
Committee for the Common Organisation of Agricultural
Markets.
(1) Commission
Regulation
(EEC)
No
2568/91
(


2 ) defines the
chemical and organoleptic characteristics of olive and
olive-pomace oil and lays down methods of assessing
HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:
those characteristics. Those methods and the limit
values for the characteristics of oils should be updated
Article 1
on the basis of the opinion of chemical experts and in
line with the work carried out within the International
Regulation (EEC) No 2568/91 is amended as follows:
Olive Council (IOC).
(1) Article 2 is replaced by the following:
(2)
To ensure the implementation at Union level of the most
recent international standards established by the IOC,
certain methods of analysis as well as certain limit
‘Article 2
values for the characteristics of oils laid down in Regu
1. The
characteristics
of
oils
laid
down
in
Annex
I
shall
lation (EEC) No 2568/91 should be updated.
be determined in accordance with the following methods of
analysis:
(3) Consequently,
the
limit
values
for
stigmastadienes,
waxes,
myristic acid and fatty acids alkyl esters should be
(a) for the determination of the free fatty acids, expressed
adapted and some decision trees for verifying whether
as the percentage of oleic acid, the method set out in
on olive-oil sample is consistent with the category
Annex II;
declared should be amended accordingly. Decision trees
for campesterol and delta-7-stigmastenol accompanied by
more restrictive parameters should be introduced in
(b) for the determination of the peroxide index, the
order to facilitate trade and guarantee olive oil auth
method set out in Annex III;
enticity, in the interest of consumer protection. The
method of analysis relating to the composition and
(c) for determination of the wax content, the method set
content of sterols and the determination of erythrodiol
out in Annex IV;
and uvaol should be replaced by a more reliable method
which also covers triterpene dialcohols. It is also appro
priate to review the organoleptic assessment of olive oil
(d) for the determination of the composition and content
and to insert a method enabling the detection of
of sterols and triterpene dialcohols by capillary-column
extraneous vegetable oils in olive oils.
gas chromatography, the method set out in Annex V;

(4) In the light of the developments relating to the
(e) for the determination of the percentage of 2- glyceryl
procedures for the conformity checks of oils, the
monopalmitate, the method set out in Annex VII;
method of sampling of olive oil and olive-pomace oils
should be adapted accordingly.
(f) for
spectrophotometric
analysis,
the
method
set
out
in
Annex IX;
(5) Regulation
(EEC)
No
2568/91
should
therefore
be
amended accordingly.
(g) for the determination of the fatty acid composition, the
method set out in Annex X A and X B;
( 1 ) OJ L 299, 16.11.2007, p. 1.
( 2 ) Commission Regulation (EEC) No 2568/91 of 11 July 1991 on the
characteristics of olive oil and olive-residue oil and on the relevant
(h) for the determination of the volatile halogenated
methods of analysis (OJ L 248, 5.9.1991, p. 1).
solvents, the method set out in Annex XI;

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L 338/32
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
17.12.2013
(i) for
the
evaluation
of
the
organoleptic
characteristics
of
dark place away from strong heat as quickly as possible and
virgin olive oil, the method set out in Annex XII;
sent to the laboratory for analysis no later than the fifth
working day after they are taken, otherwise the samples
shall be kept in such a way that they will not be
(j) for the determination of stigmastadienes, the method
degraded or damaged during transport or storage before
set out in Annex XVII;
being sent to the laboratory.
(k) for determining the content of triglycerides with
4. For
the
purposes
of
the
verification
provided
for
in
ECN42, the method set out in Annex XVIII;
paragraph 3, the analyses referred to in Annexes II, III, IX,
XII and XX and, where applicable, any counter-analyses
required under national law, shall be carried out before
(l) for the determination of the aliphatic alcohol content,
the minimum durability date in case of packaged
the method set out in Annex XIX;
products. In case of sampling of bulk oils, those analyses
shall be carried out no later than the sixth month after the
month in which the sample was taken.
(m) for the determination of the content of waxes, fatty
acid methyl esters and fatty acid ethyl esters, the
method set out in Annex XX.
No time limit shall apply to the other analyses provided for
in this Regulation.
In order to detect the presence of extraneous vegetable oils
in olive oils, the method of analysis set out in Annex XXa
Unless the sample was taken less than two months before
shall be applied.
the minimum durability date, if the results of the analyses
do not match the characteristics of the category of olive oil
or olive-pomace oil declared, the party concerned shall be
2. Verification
by
national
authorities
or
their
represen
notified no later than one month before the end of the
tatives of the organoleptic characteristics of virgin oils shall
period laid down in the first subparagraph.
be effected by tasting panels approved by the Member
States.
5. For the purpose of determining the characteristics of
olive oils by the methods provided for in the first
subparagraph of paragraph 1, the analysis results shall be
The organoleptic characteristics of an oil as referred to in
directly compared with the limits laid down in this Regu
the first subparagraph shall be deemed consonant with the
lation.’
category declared if a panel approved by the Member State
confirms the grading.
(2) Annex I is replaced by the text set out in Annex I to this
Regulation.
Should the panel not confirm the category declared as
regards the organoleptic characteristics, at the interested
party's request, the national authorities or their represen
(3) Annex Ia is replaced by the text set out in Annex II to this
tatives shall have carried out without delay two counter-
Regulation.
assessments by other approved panels, at least one by a
panel approved by the producer Member State concerned.
The characteristics concerned shall be deemed consonant
(4) Annex Ib is replaced by the text set out in Annex III to this
with the characteristics declared if at least two of the
Regulation.
counter-assessments confirm the declared grade. If that is
not the case, the interested party shall be responsible for the
(5) Annex V is replaced by the text set out in Annex IV to this
cost of the counter-assessments.
Regulation.
3. When
the
national
authorities
or
their
representatives (6) Annex VI is deleted.
verify the characteristics of the oil as provided for in
paragraph 1, samples shall be taken in accordance with
international standards EN ISO 661 on the preparation of
(7) Annex XII is replaced by the text set out in Annex V to this
test samples and EN ISO 5555 on sampling. However,
Regulation.
notwithstanding point 6.8 of standard EN ISO 5555, in
case of batches of such oils in immediate packaging, the
sample shall be taken in accordance with Annex Ia to this
(8) Annex XXa, the text of which is set out in Annex VI to this
Regulation. In case of bulk oils for which the sampling
Regulation, is inserted after Annex XX.
cannot be performed according to EN ISO 5555, the
sampling shall be performed in accordance with instructions
Article 2
provided by the competent authority of the Member State.
Products which have been legally manufactured and labelled in
the Union or legally imported into the Union and released for
Without prejudice to standard EN ISO 5555 and Chapter 6
free circulation before 1 March 2014 may be marketed until all
of standard EN ISO 661, the samples taken shall be put in a
stocks are used up.

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EN
17.12.2013 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
338/33
Article 3
This Regulation shall enter into force on the seventh day following that of its publication in the Official
Journal of the European Union.
It shall apply from 1 March 2014.
This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
Done at Brussels, 16 December 2013.
For the Commission
The President
José Manuel BARROSO

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L 338/34
ANNEX I
‘ANNEX 1
OLIVE OIL CHARACTERISTICS
EN

Difference:
Fatty acid ethyl
Peroxide
ECN42
Organoleptic
Organoleptic
Category
esters (FAEEs)
Acidity
índex mEq
Waxes mg/kg (**)
2-glyceril monopal Stigmastadienes (HPLC) and K
evaluation
evaluation

232 (*)
K 268 or
mg/kg (*)
(%) (*)
O
mitate (%)
mg/kg (1 )
ECN42 (2 )
K
Median of
Fruity median

270 (*)
Delta-K (*)
2/kg (*)
(theoretical
defect (Md) (*)
(Mf) (*)
calculation)
1. Extra virgin
FAEEs ≤ 40
≤ 0,8
≤ 20
C 42 + C 44 + C 46 ≤ 150
≤ 0,9 if total
≤ 0,05
≤ |0,2|
≤ 2,50 ≤ 0,22
≤ 0,01 Md
=
0 Mf
>
0
olive oil
(2013-2014
palmitic acid %
crop year) (3 )
≤ 14 %
Off
FAEEs ≤ 35
(2014-2015
icial
crop year)
≤ 1,0 if total
FAEEs ≤ 30
palmitic acid %
Jour
(after 2015
> 14 %
nal
crop years)
of
the
2. Virgin olive oil
—
≤ 2,0
≤ 20
C 42 + C 44 + C 46 ≤ 150
≤ 0,9 if total
≤ 0,05
≤ |0,2|
≤ 2,60 ≤ 0,25
≤ 0,01 Md
≤ 3,5 Mf
>
0
European
palmitic acid %
≤ 14 %
Union
≤ 1,0 if total
palmitic acid %
> 14 %
3. Lampante olive
— >
2,0
—
C 40 + C 42 + C 44 + C 46 ≤ 300 (4 )
≤ 0,9 if total
≤ 0,50
≤ |0,3|
—
—
— Md
>
3,5
(5 )
—
oil
palmitic acid %
≤ 14 %
≤ 1,1 if total
palmitic acid %
> 14 %
4. Refined olive
—
≤ 0,3
≤ 5
C 40 + C 42 + C 44 + C 46 ≤ 350
≤ 0,9 if total
—
≤ |0,3|
—
≤ 1,10
≤ 0,16
—
—
oil
palmitic acid %
≤ 14 %
17.12.2013
≤ 1,1 if total
palmitic acid %
> 14 %

---

17.12.2013 Off
Difference:
Fatty acid ethyl
Peroxide
ECN42
Organoleptic
Organoleptic
Category
esters (FAEEs)
Acidity
índex mEq
Waxes mg/kg (**)
2-glyceril monopal Stigmastadienes (HPLC) and K
evaluation
evaluation

232 (*)
K 268 or
mg/kg (*)
(%) (*)
O
mitate (%)
mg/kg (1 )
ECN42 (2 )
K
Median of
Fruity median

270 (*)
Delta-K (*)
2/kg (*)
(theoretical
defect (Md) (*)
(Mf) (*)
calculation)
5. Olive oil
—
≤ 1,0
≤ 15
C 40 + C 42 + C 44 + C 46 ≤ 350
≤ 0,9 if total
—
≤ |0,3|
—
≤ 0,90
≤ 0,15
—
—
EN
composed of
palmitic acid %

refined and
≤ 14 %
virgin olive
oils
≤ 1,0 if total
palmitic acid %
> 14 %
6. Crude olive-
—
—
—
C 40 + C 42 + C 44 + C 46 > 350 (6 )
≤ 1,4
—
≤ |0,6|
—
—
—
—
—
pomace
7. Refined olive-
—
≤ 0,3
≤ 5
C 40 + C 42 + C 44 + C 46 > 350
≤ 1,4
—
≤ |0,5|
—
≤ 2,00
≤ 0,20
—
—
icial
pomace oil
Jour
8. Olive-pomace
—
≤ 1,0
≤ 15
C 40 + C 42 + C 44 + C 46 > 350
≤ 1,2
—
≤ |0,5|
—
≤ 1,70
≤ 0,18
—
—
nal
oil
of
the
(1 ) Total isomers which could (or could not) be separated by capillary column.
(2 ) The olive oil has to be in conformity with the method set out in Annex XXa.
European
(3 ) This limit applies to olive oils produced as from 1st March 2014
(4 ) Oils with a wax content of between 300 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg are considered to be lampante olive oil if the total aliphatic alcohol content is less than or equal to 350 mg/kg or if the erythrodiol and uvaol content is less than or equal to
3,5 %.
(5 ) Or where the median of defect is above 3,5 or the median of defect is less than or equal to 3,5 and the fruity median is equal to 0.
Union
(6 ) Oils with a wax content of between 300 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg are considered to be crude olive-pomace oil if the total aliphatic alcohol content is above 350 mg/kg and if the erythrodiol and uvaol content is greater than 3,5 %.
Fatty acid composition (1 )
Total
Sterols composition
Total
transli
noleic +
Total
Erythrodiol
Category
transoleic
App
Delta-7-
Myristic
Linolenic Arachidic Eicosenoic Behenic Lignoceric isomers
transli
Brassi
Campes
Stig
sterols
and uvaol
Cholesterol
β–sitoste stigmaste
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
nolenic
casterol
terol (2 )
masterol
(mg/kg)
(%) (**)
isomers
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
rol
nol (2 )
(%)
(%) (3 )
(%)
1. Extra virgin olive oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,05
≤ 0,05
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,1
≤ 4,0 <
Camp. ≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 000
≤ 4,5
2. Virgin olive oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,05
≤ 0,05
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,1
≤ 4,0 <
Camp. ≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 000
≤ 4,5
L
3. Lampante olive oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,10
≤ 0,10
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,1
≤ 4,0
—
≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 000 ≤ 4,5 (4 )
338/35
4. Refined olive oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,30
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,1
≤ 4,0 <
Camp. ≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 000
≤ 4,5

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L 338/36
Fatty acid composition (1 )
Total
Sterols composition
Total
transli
noleic +
Total
Erythrodiol
Category
transoleic
App
Delta-7-
Myristic
Linolenic Arachidic Eicosenoic Behenic Lignoceric isomers
transli
Brassi
Campes
Stig
sterols
and uvaol
Cholesterol
β–sitoste stigmaste
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
nolenic
casterol
terol (2 )
masterol
(mg/kg)
(%) (**)
isomers
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
rol
nol (2 )
(%)
(%) (3 )
(%)
EN
5. Olive oil composed of refined
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,30
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,1
≤ 4,0 <
Camp. ≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 000
≤ 4,5

and virgin olive oils
6. Crude olive-pomace oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,30
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,10
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,2
≤ 4,0
—
≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 2 500 >
4,5
(5 )
7. Refined olive-pomace oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,30
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,35
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,2
≤ 4,0 <
Camp. ≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 800 >
4,5
8. Olive-pomace oil
≤ 0,03
≤ 1,00
≤ 0,60
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,30
≤ 0,20
≤ 0,40
≤ 0,35
≤ 0,5
≤ 0,2
≤ 4,0 <
Camp. ≥ 93,0
≤ 0,5
≥ 1 600 >
4,5
(1 ) Other fatty acids content (%): palmitic: 7,50-20,00; palmitoleic: 0,30-3,50; heptadecanoic: ≤ 0,30; heptadecenoic: ≤ 0,30; stearic: 0,50-5,00; oleic: 55,00-83,00; linoleic: 3,50-21,00.
(2 ) See the Appendix to this Annex.
Off
(3 ) App β-sitosterol: Delta-5,23-stigmastadienol+chlerosterol+beta-sitosterol+sitostanol+delta-5-avenasterol+delta-5,24-stigmastadienol.
(4 ) Oils with a wax content of between 300 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg are considered to be lampante olive oil if the total aliphatic alcohol content is less than or equal to 350 mg/kg or if the erythrodiol and uvaol content is less than or equal to
icial
3,5 %.
(5 ) Oils with a wax content of between 300 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg are considered to be crude olive-pomace oil if the total aliphatic alcohol content is above 350 mg/kg and if the erythrodiol and uvaol content is greater than 3,5 %.
Jour
nal
Notes:
of
the
(a) The results of the analyses must be expressed to the same number of decimal places as used for each characteristic. The last digit must be increased by one unit if the following digit is greater than 4.
European
(b) If just a single characteristic does not match the values stated, the category of an oil can be changed or the oil declared impure for the purposes of this Regulation.
(c) If a characteristic is marked with an asterisk (*), referring to the quality of the oil, this means the following: - for lampante olive oil, it is possible for both the relevant limits to be different from the stated
values at the same time, - for virgin olive oils, if at least one of these limits is different from the stated values, the category of the oil will be changed, although they will still be classified in one of the
Union
categories of virgin olive oil.
(d) If a characteristic is marked with two asterisks (**), this means that for all types of olive-pomace oil, it is possible for both the relevant limits to be different from the stated values at the same time.
17.12.2013

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EN
17.12.2013 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
338/37
Appendix
Decision tree
Campesterol decision tree for virgin and extra virgin olive oils:
The other parameters shall comply with the limits fixed in this Regulation.
Delta-7-stigmastenol decision tree for:
— Extra virgin and virgin olive oils
The other parameters shall comply with the limits fixed in this Regulation.
— Olive-pomace oils (crude and refined

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L 338/38
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
17.12.2013
ANNEX II
‘ANNEX Ia
SAMPLING OF OLIVE OIL OR OLIVE-POMACE OIL DELIVERED IN IMMEDIATE PACKAGING
This method of sampling is applied to batches of olive oil or olive-pomace oil put up in immediate packaging. Different
sampling methods apply, depending on whether the immediate packaging exceeds 5 litres or not.
“Batch” shall mean a set of sales units which are produced, manufactured and packed in circumstances such that the oil
contained in each sales unit is considered to be homogenous in terms of all analytical characteristics. The individuation of
a batch must be done in accordance with Directive 2011/91/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council ( 1 ).
“Increment” shall mean the quantity of oil contained in an immediate package and taken from a random point of the
batch.
1. CONTENT
OF
PRIMARY
SAMPLE
1.1. Immediate packaging not exceeding 5 litres
“Primary Sample” for immediate packaging not exceeding 5 litres shall mean the number of increments taken from a
batch and in agreement with Table 1.
Table 1
Primary sample minimum size must comprise the following
Where the immediate packaging has a capacity of The
primary
sample
must
comprise
the
oil
from
(a) 1 litre or more (a)
1
immediate
pack;
(b) less than 1 litre (b)
the
minimum
number
of
packs
with
a
total
capacity
of at least 1,0 litre
The number of packs referred to in Table 1, which shall constitute a primary sample, can be increased by each
Member State, according to their own needs (for example organoleptic assessment by a different laboratory from
that which performed the chemical analyses, counter-analysis, etc.).
1.2. Immediate packaging exceeding 5 litres
“Primary Sample” for immediate packaging exceeding 5 litres shall mean a representative part of the total increments,
obtained by a process of reduction and in agreement with Table 2. The primary sample must be composed of
various examples.
“Example” of a primary sample shall mean each of the packages making up the primary sample.
Table 2
Minimum number of increments to be selected
Number of packages in the lot Minimum
number
of
increments
to
be
selected
Up to 10
1
From … 11 to 150
2
From … 151 to 500
3
From … 501 to 1 500
4
From … 1 501 to 2 500
5
> 2 500 per 1 000 packages 1
extra
increment
( 1 ) Directive 2011/91/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on indications or marks identifying the lot
to which a foodstuff belongs (OJ L 334, 16.12.2011, p. 1).

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17.12.2013 Official
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of
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European
Union L
338/39
In order to reduce the volume of the sampling immediate packs, the content of the sampling increments is
homogenised for the preparation of the primary sample. The portions of the different increments are poured
into a common container for homogenisation by stirring, so that it will be best protected from air.
The content of the primary sample must be poured into a series of packages of the minimum capacity of 1,0 liter,
each one of which constitutes an example of the primary sample.
The number of primary samples can be increased by each Member State, according to their own necessity (for
example organoleptic assessment by a different laboratory from the one that performed the chemical analyses,
counter-analysis, etc).
Each package must be filled in a way to minimise the air layer on top and then suitably closed and sealed to ensure
the product is tamper-proof.
These examples must be labeled to ensure correct identification.
2. ANALYSES
AND
RESULTS
2.1. Each primary sample must be subdivided into laboratory samples, in accordance with point 2.5 of standard EN ISO
5555, and analysed according to the order shown in the decision tree set out in Annex Ib or in any other random
order.
2.2. Where all the results of the analyses comply with the characteristics of the category of oil declared, the whole batch
is to be declared to comply.
If a single result of the analyses does not comply with the characteristics of the category of oil declared, the whole
batch is to be declared non compliant.
3. VERIFICATION
OF
THE
CATEGORY
OF
BATCH
3.1. In order to verify the batch category, the competent authority may increase the number of primary samples taken at
different points of the batch according to the following table:
Table 3
Number of primary samples determined by the size of batch
Size of batch (litres) Number
of
primary
samples
Less than 7 500
2
From 7 500 to less than 25 000
3
From 25 000 to less than 75 000
4
From 75 000 to less than 125 000
5
Equal to and more than 125 000 6
+
1
each
50
000
litres
more
Each increment constituting a primary sample must be taken from a continuous place in the batch; it is necessary to
take note of the location of each primary sample and to identify it unambiguously.
The formation of each primary sample must be carried out according to the procedures referred to in
points 1.1 and 1.2.
Each primary sample is then subjected to the analyses referred to in Article 2(1).
3.2. When one of the results of the analyses referred to in Article 2(1) of at least one primary sample does not comply
with the characteristics of the declared category of oil, the whole sampling batch shall be declared non compliant.’

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L 338/40
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
17.12.2013
ANNEX III
‘ANNEX Ib
DECISION TREE FOR VERIFYING WHETHER AN OLIVE OIL SAMPLE IS CONSISTENT WITH THE
CATEGORY DECLARED
Table 1

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EN
17.12.2013 Official
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of
the
European
Union L
338/41
Table 2

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L 338/42
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
17.12.2013
Table 3

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EN
17.12.2013 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
338/43
Appendix 1
Table of equivalence between the Annexes to this Regulation and the analyses specified in the decision tree
— Acidity Annex
II Determination
of
free
fatty
acids,
cold
method
— Peroxide value Annex
III Determination
of
peroxide
value
— UV spectrometry Annex
IX Spectrophotometric
analysis
— Organoleptic assessment Annex
XII Organoleptic
assessment
of
virgin
olive
oil
— Ethyl esters Annex
XX
Method for the determination of the content of waxes, fatty acid methyl
esters and fatty acid ethyl esters by capillary gas chromatography
— 3,5-Stigmastadienes Annex
XVII Method
of
determining
stigmastadienes
in
vegetable
oils
— Trans isomers of fatty Annex X A
Analysis by gas chromatography of methyl esters of fatty acids
acids
and
Annex X B Preparation
of
methyl
esters
of
fatty
acids
— Fatty acids content Annex
X
A
Analysis by gas chromatography of methyl esters of fatty acids
and
Annex X B Preparation
of
methyl
esters
of
fatty
acids
— ΔECN42 Annex
XVIII Determination of the composition of triglycerides with ECN42
(difference between the HPLC data and theoretical content)
— Sterols composition and Annex V
Determination of the composition and content of sterols and triterpene
total sterols
dialcohols by capillary-column gas chromatography
— Erythrodiol and Uvaol
— Waxes Annex
IV Determination
of
wax
content
by
capillary-column
gas
chromatography
— Aliphatic alcohols Annex
XIX Determination
of
aliphatic
alcohols
content
by
capillary-column
gas
chromatography
— Saturated fatty acids in Annex VII Determination
of
the
percentage
of
2-glyceryl
monopalmitate’
position 2

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ANNEX IV
‘ANNEX V
DETERMINATION OF THE COMPOSITION AND CONTENT OF STEROLS AND TRITERPENES DIALCOHOLS
BY CAPILLARY-COLUMN GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY
1. SCOPE
The method describes a procedure for determining the individual and total sterols and triterpene dialcohols
content of olive oils and olive-pomace oils.
2. PRINCIPLE
The oil, with added α-cholestanol as an internal standard, is saponified with potassium hydroxide in ethanolic
solution and the unsaponifiable matter is then extracted with ethyl ether.
The sterols and triterpene dialcohols fraction is separated from the unsaponifiable matter by thin-layer chroma
tography on a basic silica gel plate. The fractions recovered from the silica gel are transformed into trimethylsilyl
ethers and then analysed by capillary column gas chromatography.
3. APPARATUS
The usual laboratory equipment and in particular the following:
3.1. 250
ml
flask
fitted
with
a
reflux
condenser
with
ground-glass
joints.
3.2. 500
ml
separating
funnel.
3.3. 250
ml
flasks.
3.4.
Complete apparatus for analysis by thin-layer chromatography using 20 x 20 cm glass plates.
3.5. Ultraviolet
lamp
with
a
wavelength
of
254
or
366
nm.
3.6. 100
μl and 500 μl microsyringes.
3.7. Cylindrical
filter
funnel
with
a
G3
porous
septum
(porosity
15-40
μm) of diameter approximately 2 cm and a
depth of 5 cm, suitable for filtration under vacuum with male ground-glass joint.
3.8. 50
ml
vacuum
conical
flask
with
ground-glass
female
joint,
which
can
be
fitted
to
the
filter
funnel
(point
3.7).
3.9.
10 ml test tube with a tapering bottom and a sealing glass stopper.
3.10. Gas chromatograph suitable for use with a capillary column with split injection system, consisting of:
3.10.1. A thermostatic chamber for columns capable of maintaining the desired temperature with an accuracy of ± 1°C;
3.10.2. A temperature-adjustable injection unit with a persilanised glass vaporising element and split system;
3.10.3. A flame ionisation detector (FID);
3.10.4. Data acquisition system suitable for use with the FID detector (point 3.10.3.), capable of manual integration.
3.11. Fused-silica capillary column of length 20 to 30 m, internal diameter 0,25 to 0,32 mm, coated with 5 %
diphenyl - 95 % dimethylpolysiloxane (SE-52 or SE-54 stationary phase or equivalent), to a uniform thickness
between 0,10 and 0,30 μm.
3.12. Microsyringe, of 10 ml capacity, for gas chromatography, with cemented needle suitable for split injection.
3.13. Calcium
dichloride
desiccator
4. REAGENTS
4.1. Potassium
hydroxide
minimum
titre
85
%.

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4.2. Potassium
hydroxide
ethanolic
solution,
approximately
2
N.
Dissolve 130 g of potassium hydroxide (point 4.1) with cooling in 200 ml of distilled water and then make up
to one litre with ethanol (point 4.10). Keep the solution in well-stoppered dark glass bottles and stored
maximum two days.
4.3. Ethyl
ether,
for
analysis
quality.
4.4. Potassium
hydroxide
ethanolic
solution,
approximately
0,2
N.
Dissolve 13 g of potassium hydroxide (point 4.1) in 20 ml of distilled water and make up to one litre with
ethanol (point 4.10).
4.5. Anhydrous
sodium
sulphate,
for
analysis
quality.
4.6.
Glass plates (20x20 cm) coated with silica gel, without fluorescence indicator, thickness 0,25 mm (commercially
available ready for use).
4.7. Toluene,
for
chromatography
quality.
4.8. Acetone,
for
chromatography
quality.
4.9. n-Hexane,
for
chromatography
quality.
4.10. Ethyl
ether,
for
chromatography
quality.
4.11. Ethanol
of
analytical
quality.
4.12. Ethyl
acetate
of
analytical
quality.
4.13. Reference solution for thin-layer chromatography: cholesterol or phytosterols, and erythrodiol 5 % solution in
ethyl acetate (point 4.11).
4.14. 2,7-dichlorofluorescein,
0,2
%
in
ethanolic
solution.
Make
slightly
basic
by
adding
a
few
drops
of
2
N
alcoholic
potassium hydroxide solution (point 4.2).
4.15. Anhydrous
pyridine,
for
chromatography
quality
(see
Note
5).
4.16. Hexamethyl
disilazane
of
analytical
quality.
4.17. Trimethylchlorosilane
of
analytical
quality.
4.18. Sample
solutions
of
sterol
trimethylsilyl
ethers.
To be prepared at the time of use from sterols and erythrodiol obtained from oils containing them.
4.19.
α-cholestanol, purity more than 99 % (purity must be checked by GC analysis).
4.20.
α-cholestanol internal standard solution, 0,2 % solution (m/V) in ethyl acetate (point 4.11).
4.21. Phenolphthalein
solution,
10
g/L
in
ethanol
(point
4.10).
4.22. Carrier
gas:
hydrogen
or
helium,
gas-chromatographic
purity.
4.23. Auxiliary
gases:
hydrogen,
helium,
nitrogen
and
air,
of
gas-chromatographic
purity.
4.24. n-Hexane (point 4.9)/ethyl ether (point 4.10) mixture 65:35 (V/V).
4.25. Silylation reagent, consisting of a 9:3:1 (V/V/V) mixture of pyridine/hexamethyl disilazane/trimethylchlorosilane.
5. PROCEDURE
5.1. Preparation
of
the
unsaponifiable
matter.
5.1.1. Using
a
500 μl microsyringe (point 3.6) introduce into the 250 ml flask (point 3.1) a volume of the
α-cholestanol internal standard solution (point 4.20) containing an amount of cholestanol corresponding to
approximately 10 % of the sterol content of the sample. For example, for 5 g of olive oil sample add 500 μl of
the α-cholestanol solution (point 4.20) and 1 500 μl for olive-pomace oil. Evaporate until dryness with a gentle
current of nitrogen in a warm water bath, after cooling the flask, weigh 5 ± 0,01 g of the dry filtered sample into
the same flask.
Note 1: Animal or vegetable oils and fats containing appreciable quantities of cholesterol may show a peak
having a retention time close to cholestanol. If this occurs, the sterol fraction will have to be analysed in
duplicate with and without internal standard.

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5.1.2. Add
50
ml
of
2
N
ethanolic
potassium
hydroxide
solution
(point
4.2)
and
some
pumice,
fit
the
reflux
condenser
and heat to gentle boiling until saponification takes place (the solution becomes clear). Continue heating for a
further 20 minutes, then add 50 ml of distilled water from the top of the condenser, detach the condenser and
cool the flask to approximately 30 °C.
5.1.3. Transfer the contents of the flask quantitatively into a 500 ml separating funnel (point 3.2) using several portions
of distilled water (50 ml). Add approximately 80 ml of ethyl ether (point 4.10), shake vigorously for approxi
mately 60 seconds, periodically releasing the pressure by inverting the separating funnel and opening the
stopcock. Allow standing until there is complete separation of the two phases (Note 2).
Then draw off the soap solution as completely as possible into a second separating funnel. Perform two further
extractions on the water-alcohol phase in the same way using 60 to 70 ml of ethyl ether (point 4.10).
Note 2: Any emulsion can be destroyed by adding small quantities of ethanol (point 4.11).
5.1.4. Combine
the
three
ether
extracts
in
one
separating
funnel
containing
50
ml
of
water.
Continue
to
wash
with
water (50 ml) until the wash water no longer gives a pink colour on the addition of a drop of phenolphthalein
solution (point 4.21).
When the wash water has been removed, filter on anhydrous sodium sulphate (point 4.5) into a previously
weighed 250 ml flask, washing the funnel and filter with small quantities of ethyl ether (point 4.10).
5.1.5. Evaporate
the
solvent
by
distillation
on
a
rotary
evaporator
at
30
°C
under
vacuum.
Add
5
ml
of
acetone
and
remove the volatile solvent completely in a gentle current of air. Dry the residue in the oven at 103±2 °C for 15
min. Cool in desiccators and weigh to the nearest 0,1 mg.
5.2. Separation
of
the
sterol
and
triterpene
dialcohols
fraction
(erythrodiol
+
uvaol)
5.2.1. Preparation of the basic thin layer chromatography plates. Immerse the silica gel plates (point 4.6) about 4 cm in
the 0,2 N ethanolic potassium hydroxide solution (point 4.5) for 10 seconds, then allow to dry in a fume
cupboard for two hours and finally place in an oven at 100 °C for one hour.
Remove from the oven and keep in a calcium chloride desiccator (point 3.13) until required for use (plates
treated in this way must be used within 15 days).
Note 3: When basic silica gel plates are used to separate the sterol fraction there is no need to treat the
unsaponifiable fraction with alumina. In this way all compounds of an acid nature (fatty acids and
others) are retained on the spotting line and the sterols band is clearly separated from the aliphatic and
triterpene alcohols band.
5.2.2. Place
hexane/ethyl
ether
mixture
(point
4.24)
(Note
4)
into
the
development
chamber,
to
a
depth
of
approxi
mately 1 cm. Close the chamber with the appropriate cover and leave thus for at least half an hour, in a cool
place, so that liquid-vapour equilibrium is established strips of filter paper dipping into the eluent may be placed
on the internal surfaces of the chamber. This reduces developing time by approximately one-third and brings
about more uniform and regular elution of the components.
Note 4: The developing mixture needs to be replaced for every test, in order to achieve perfectly reproducible
elution conditions, alternative solvent 50:50 (V/V) n-hexane/ethyl ether may be used.
5.2.3. Prepare
an
approximately
5
%
solution
of
the
unsaponifiable
(point
5.1.5)
in
ethyl
acetate
(point
4.12)
and,
using
the 100 μl microsyringe, depose 0,3 ml of the solution on a narrow and uniform streak on the lower end (2 cm)
of the chromatographic plate (point 5.2.1). In line with the streak, place 2 to 3 μl of the material reference
solution (point 4.13), so that the sterol and triterpene dialcohols band can be identified after developing.
5.2.4. Place the plate in the developing chamber prepared as specified in point 5.2.2. The ambient temperature should
be maintained between 15 and 20 °C (Note 5). Immediately close the chamber with the cover and allow eluting
until the solvent front reaches approximately 1 cm from the upper edge of the plate. Remove the plate from the
developing chamber and evaporate the solvent in a flow of hot air or by leaving the plate for a short while,
under a hood.
Note 5: Higher temperature could worsen the separation.

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5.2.5. Spray the plate lightly and uniformly with the 2,7-dichlorofluorescein solution (point 4.14) and then leave to
dry. When the plate is observed under ultraviolet light, the sterols and triterpene dialcohols bands can be
identified through being aligned with the spots obtained from the reference solution (point 4.13). Mark the
limits of the bands along the edges of the fluorescence with a black pencil (see TLC plate figure 3).
5.2.6. By using a metal spatula, scrape off the silica gel of the marked area. Place the finely comminuted material
removed into the filter funnel (point 3.7). Add 10 ml of hot ethyl acetate (point 4.12), mix carefully with the
metal spatula and filter under vacuum, collecting the filtrate in the conical flask (point 3.8.) attached to the filter
funnel.
Wash the residue in the flask three times with ethyl ether (point 4.3) (approximately 10 ml each time), collecting
the filtrate in the same flask attached to the funnel, evaporate the filtrate to a volume of 4 to 5 ml, transfer the
residual solution to the previously weighed 10 ml test tube (point 3.9), evaporate to dryness by mild heating, in a
gentle flow of nitrogen, make up again using a few drops of acetone (point 4.8), evaporate again to dryness,
The residue contained in the test tube must consist of the sterol and triterpene dialchols fractions.
5.3. Preparation
of
the
trimethylsilyl
ethers.
5.3.1. Add the silylation reagent (point 4.25) (Note 6), in the ratio of 50 μl for every milligram of sterols and triterpene
dialcohols, in the test tube containing the sterol and triterpene fraction, avoiding any uptake of moisture
(Note 7).
Note 6: Ready for use solutions are available commercially. Other silylation reagents, such as, for example,
bistrimethylsilyl trifluor acetamide + 1 % trimethylchlorosilane, which has to be diluted with an equal
volume of anhydrous pyridine, are also available.
Pyridine can be replaced by the same amount of acetonitrile.
5.3.2. Stopper the test tube, shake carefully (without overturning) until the compounds are completely dissolved. Leave
to stand for at least 15 minutes at ambient temperature and then centrifuge for a few minutes. The clear solution
is ready for gas chromatographic analysis.
Note 7: The slight opalescence, which may form, is normal and does not cause any anomaly. The formation of a
white flock or the appearance of a pink colour is indicative of the presence of moisture or deterioration
of the reagent. If this occurs, the test must be repeated (only if hexamethyldisilazane/trimethylchloro
silane is used).
5.4. Gas
chromatographic
analysis.
5.4.1. Preliminary
operations,
capillary
column
conditioning.
5.4.1.1. Fit the column (point 3.11) in the gas chromatograph, by attaching the inlet end to the split injector and the
outlet end to the detector.
Carry out general checks on the gas chromatograph unit (leaks from the gas circuits, detector efficiency,
efficiency of the splitting system and recording system, etc.).
5.4.1.2. If the column is being used for the first time, it is recommended that it be subjected to conditioning: passing a
gentle flow of gas through the column itself, then switch on the gas chromatography unit and begin a gradual
heating, up to a temperature of at least 20 °C above the operating temperature (Note 8). Hold this temperature
for at least two hours, then place the entire unit in operating mode (adjustment of gas flows and splitting,
ignition of the flame, connection with the computing system, adjustment of the column, detector and injector
temperature, etc.) and then record the signal with a sensitivity at least two times greater than that one intended
for the analysis. The course of the base line must be linear, without peaks of any kind, and must not show drift.
A negative straight-line drift indicates leakage from the column connections; a positive drift indicates inadequate
conditioning of the column.
Note 8: The conditioning temperature must always be at least 20 °C less than the maximum temperature
specified for the stationary phase used.
5.4.2. Choice
of
operating
conditions.
5.4.2.1. The operating conditions are as follows:
— Column temperature: 260 ± 5 °C;
— Injector temperature: 280-300 °C;
— Detector temperature: 280-300 °C;
— Linear velocity of the carrier gas: helium 20 to 35 cm/s; hydrogen 30 to 50 cm/s;

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— Splitting ratio: from 1:50 to 1:100;
— Instrument sensitivity: from 4 to 16 times the minimum attenuation;
— Recording sensitivity: 1 to 2 mV full scale;
— Amount of substance injected: 0,5 to 1 μl of TMSE solution.
These conditions may be changed according to the characteristics of the column and gas chromatograph, so as
to obtain chromatograms, which meet the following requirements:
— The retention time for the -sitosterol peak should be at 20 ± 5 min;
— The campesterol peak should be: for olive oil (mean content 3 %) 20 ± 5 % of full scale; for soybean oil
(average content 20 %) 80 ± 10 % of full scale;
— All the present sterols must be separated. In addition to being separated the peaks, they must also be
completely resolved, i.e. the peak trace should return to the base line before leaving for the next peak.
Incomplete resolution is, however, tolerated, provided that the peak at RRT 1,02 (Sitostanol) can be
quantified using the perpendicular.
5.4.3. Analytical
procedure
5.4.3.1. By using the 10 μl microsyringe, take 1 μl of hexane, draw in 0,5 μl of air and then 0,5 to 1 μl of the sample
solution. Raise the plunger of the syringe further, so the needle is emptied. Push the needle through the
membrane of the injector and after one to two seconds, inject rapidly, and then slowly remove the needle
after around five seconds.
An automatic injector can be used as well.
5.4.3.2. Carry out the recording until the TMSE of the present triterpene dialcohols are completely eluted. The base line
must continue to meet the requirements (point 5.4.1.2).
5.4.4. Peak
identification
Identify individual peaks on the basis of retention times and by comparison with the mixture of sterol and
triterpene dialcohols TMSE, analysed under the same conditions (see Appendix).
The sterols and triterpene dialcohols are eluted in the following order: cholesterol, brassicasterol, ergosterol, 24-
methylen-cholesterol, campesterol, campestanol, stigmasterol, Δ7-campesterol, Δ5,23-stigmastadienol, clerosterol,
-sistosterol, sitostanol, Δ5-avenasterol, Δ5,24-stigmastadienol, Δ7-stigmastenol, Δ7-avenasterol, erythrodiol and
uvaol.
The retention times for -sitosterol, for SE-52 and SE-54 columns, are shown in Table 1.
Figures 1 and 2 show typical chromatograms for some oils.
5.4.5. Quantitative
evaluation.
5.4.5.1. Calculate the areas of the α-cholestanol and the sterol and triterpene dialcohols peaks by using the computing
system. Ignore peaks for any compound which are not included (ergosterol must not be calculated) among those
listed in Table 1. The response factor for α-cholestanol should be considered equal to 1.
5.4.5.2. Calculate the concentration of each individual sterol, in mg/kg of fatty material, as follows:
A
sterol x

x
m s 1 000
A s m
where:
A x = peak area for sterol x, in computing system counts;
A s = area of the α-cholestanol peak, in computing system counts;
m s = mass of added α-cholestanol, in milligrams;
m = mass of the sample used for determination, in grams.

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6. EXPRESSION
OF
THE
RESULTS
6.1. Report
individual
sterol
concentrations
as
mg/kg
of
fatty
material
and
their
sum
as "total sterols".
The composition of each of the individual sterols and of the erythrodiol and uvaol should be expressed to one
decimal point.
Total sterol composition must be expressed without any decimal point.
6.2.
Calculate the percentage of each individual sterol from the ratio of the relevant peak area to the total peak area
for sterols and erythrodiol and uvaol:
A
sterol x

x
ΣA 100
where:
A x = peak area for x;
ΣA = total peak area for sterols;
6.3. Apparent
β-sitosterol: Δ5-23-stigmastadienol + clerosterol + β-sitosterol + sitostanol + Δ5-avenasterol + Δ5-24-
stigmastadienol.
6.4. Calculate
the
percentage
of
erythrodiol
and
uvaol:
Er
Erythrodiol Uvaol
Uv
Er Uv ΣA 100
where
ΣA = sum area for sterol in computing system counts;
Er = area of Erythrodiol in computing system counts;
Uv = area of Uvaol in computing system counts;

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Appendix
Determination of the linear speed of the gas
With the gas chromatograph set to normal operating conditions, inject 1 to 3 μl of methane (or propane) and measure
the time taken by the gas to pass through the column, from the time of injection to the time at which the peak appears
(tM).
The linear speed in cm/s is given by L/tM, where L is the length of the column in centimetres and tM is the measured
time, in seconds.
Table 1
Relative retention times for sterols
Relative retention time
Peak Identification
SE 54
SE 52
column
column
1 Cholesterol
Δ-5-cholesten-3-ol 0,67 0,63
2 Cholestanol
5α-cholestan-3-ol 0,68 0,64
3 Brassicasterol [24S]-24-methyl-Δ-5,22-cholestadien-3-ol 0,73 0,71
* Ergosterol [24S]
24
methy
Δ5-7-22 cholestatrien 3-ol 0,78 0,76
4 24-methylene-cholesterol 24-methylene-Δ-5,24-cholestadien-3-o1 0,82 0,80
5 Campesterol (24R)-24-methyl-Δ-5-cholesten-3-ol 0,83 0,81
6 Campestanol (24R)-24-methyl-cholestan-3-ol 0,85 0,82
7 Stigmasterol (24S)-24-ethyl-Δ-5,22-cholestadien-3-ol 0,88 0,87
8
Δ-7-campesterol (24R)-24-methyl-Δ-7-cholesten-3-ol 0,93 0,92
9
Δ-5,23-stigmastadienol (24R,S)-24-ethyl-Δ-5,23-choIestadien-3-ol 0,95 0,95
10 Clerosterol (24S)-24-ethyl-Δ-5,25-cholestadien-3-ol 0,96 0,96
11
-sitosterol (24R)-24-ethyl-Δ-5-cholesten-3-ol 1,00 1,00
12 Sitostanol 24-ethyl-cholestan-3-ol 1,02 1,02
13
Δ-5-avenasterol (24Z)-24-ethylidene-Δ-cholesten-3-ol 1,03 1,03
14
Δ-5-24-stigmastadienol (24R,S)-24-ethyl-Δ-5,24-cholestadien-3-ol 1,08 1,08
15
Δ-7-stigmastenol (24R,S)-24-ethyl-Δ-7-cholesten-3-ol 1,12 1,12
16
Δ-7-avenasterol (24Z)-24-ethylidene-Δ-7-cholesten-3-ol 1,16 1,16
17 Erythrodiol
5α olean-12en-328 diol 1,41 1,41
18 Uvaol
Δ12-ursen-328 diol 1,52 1,52

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Figure 1
Gas chromatogram of the sterol and triterpene dialchols fraction of a lampante olive oil (spiked with internal
standard)

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Figure 2
Gas chromatogram of the sterol and triterpene dialchols fraction of a refined olive oil (spiked with internal
standard)

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Figure 3
TLC plate olive-pomace oil with the zone that must be scraped for sterols and triterpenic dialcohols
determination
1 – Squalene
2 – Triterpene and Aliphatic alcohols
3 – Sterols and Triterpenic dialcohols
4 – Start and free fatty acids’

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ANNEX V
‘ANNEX XII
THE INTERNATIONAL OLIVE COUNCIL’S METHOD FOR THE ORGANOLEPTIC ASSESSMENT OF VIRGIN
OLIVE OIL
1. PURPOSE
AND
SCOPE
The purpose of this international method is to determine the procedure for assessing the organoleptic char
acteristics of virgin olive oil within the meaning of point 1 of Annex XVI to Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007
and to establish the method for its classification on the basis of those characteristics. It also provides indications
for optional labelling.
The method described is applicable only to virgin olive oil and to the classification or labelling of such oils
according to the intensity of the defects perceived and of the fruitiness, as determined by a group of tasters
selected, trained and monitored as a panel.
It also provides for indications for optional labelling.
The IOC standards mentioned in this Annex are used in their last available version.
2. GENERAL
BASIC
VOCABULARY
FOR
SENSORY
ANALYSIS
Refer to the standard IOC/T.20/Doc. No 4 "Sensory Analysis: General Basic Vocabulary"
3. SPECIFIC
VOCABULARY
3.1. Negative
attributes
Fusty/muddy sediment: Characteristic flavour of oil obtained from olives piled or stored in such conditions as to have
undergone an advanced stage of anaerobic fermentation, or of oil which has been left in contact with the sediment
that settles in underground tanks and vats and which has also undergone a process of anaerobic fermentation.
Musty-humid-earthy: Characteristic flavour of oils obtained from fruit in which large numbers of fungi and yeasts
have developed as a result of its being stored in humid conditions for several days or of oil obtained from olives
that have been collected with earth or mud on them and which have not been washed.
Winey-vinegary-acid-sour: Characteristic flavour of certain oils reminiscent of wine or vinegar. This flavour is mainly
due to a process of aerobic fermentation in the olives or in olive paste left on pressing mats which have not been
properly cleaned and leads to the formation of acetic acid, ethyl acetate and ethanol.
Rancid: Flavour of oils which have undergone an intense process of oxidation.
Frostbitten olives (wet wood): Characteristic flavour of oils extracted from olives which have been injured by frost
while on the tree.
3.2. Other
negative
attributes
Heated or: Characteristic flavour of oils caused by excessive and/or prolonged
Burnt: Heating during processing, particularly when the paste is thermally mixed, if this is done under unsuitable
thermal conditions.
Hay–wood: Characteristic flavour of certain oils produced from olives that have dried out.
Rough: Thick, pasty mouth sensation produced by certain old oils.
Greasy: Flavour of oil reminiscent of that of diesel oil, grease or mineral oil.
Vegetable water: Flavour acquired by the oil as a result of prolonged contact with vegetable water which has
undergone fermentation processes.
Brine: Flavour of oil extracted from olives which have been preserved in brine.
Metallic: Flavour that is reminiscent of metals. It is characteristic of oil which has been in prolonged contact with
metallic surfaces during crushing, mixing, pressing or storage.

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Esparto: Characteristic flavour of oil obtained from olives pressed in new esparto mats. The flavour may differ
depending on whether the mats are made of green esparto or dried esparto.
Grubby: Flavour of oil obtained from olives which have been heavily attacked by the grubs of the olive fly
(Bactrocera oleae).
Cucumber: Flavour produced when an oil is hermetically packed for too long, particularly in tin containers, and
which is attributed to the formation of 2,6 nonadienal.
3.3. Positive
attributes
Fruity: Set of olfactory sensations characteristic of the oil which depends on the variety and comes from sound,
fresh olives, either ripe or unripe. It is perceived directly and/or through the back of the nose.
Bitter: Characteristic primary taste of oil obtained from green olives or olives turning colour. It is perceived in the
circumvallate papillae on the “V” region of the tongue.
Pungent: Biting tactile sensation characteristic of oils produced at the start of the crop year, primarily from olives
that are still unripe. It can be perceived throughout the whole of the mouth cavity, particularly in the throat.
3.4. Optional
terminology
for
labelling
purposes
Upon request, the panel leader may certify that the oils which have been assessed comply with the definitions and
ranges corresponding to the following adjectives according to the intensity and perception of the attributes.
Positive attributes (fruity, bitter and pungent): According to the intensity of perception:
— Intense, when the median of the attribute is more than 6;
— Medium, when the median of the attribute is between 3 and 6;
— Light, when the median of the attribute is less than 3.
Fruity: Set of olfactory sensations characteristic of the oil which depends on the variety of olive and comes from
sound, fresh olives in which neither green nor ripe fruitiness predominates. It is perceived directly and/or through
the back of the nose.
Greenly fruity: Set of olfactory sensations characteristic of the oil which is reminiscent of green fruit, depends on the
variety of olive and comes from green, sound, fresh olives. It is perceived directly and/or through the back of the
nose.
Ripely fruity: Set of olfactory sensations characteristic of the oil which is reminiscent of ripe fruit, depends on the
variety of olive and comes from sound, fresh olives. It is perceived directly and/or through the back of the nose.
Well balanced: Oil which does not display a lack of balance, by which is meant the olfactory–gustatory and tactile
sensation where the median of the bitter and/or pungent attributes is two points higher than the median of the
fruitiness.
Mild oil: Oil for which the median of the bitter and pungent attributes is 2 or less.
4. GLASS
FOR
OIL
TASTING
Refer to the standard IOC/T.20/Doc. No 5, "Glass for Oil Tasting".
5. TEST
ROOM
Refer to the standard IOC/T.20/Doc. No 6, "Guide for the Installation of a Test Room".
6. ACCESSORIES
The following accessories, which are required by tasters to perform their task properly, must be supplied in each
booth and must be within easy reach:
— glasses (standardised) containing the samples, code numbered, covered with a watch-glass and kept at
28 °C ± 2 °C;
— profile sheet (see Figure 1) on hard copy, or on soft copy provided that the conditions of the profile sheet are
met, together with the instructions for its use if necessary
— pen or indelible ink
— trays with slices of apple and/or water, carbonated water and/or rusks
— glass of water at ambient temperature
— sheet recalling the general rules listed in sections 8.4 and 9.1.1
— spittoons.

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7. PANEL
LEADER
AND
TASTERS
7.1. Panel
leader
The panel leader must be a suitably trained person with an expert knowledge of the kinds of oils which he or she
will come across in the course of their work. They are the key figure in the panel and responsible for its
organisation and running.
The work of the panel leader calls for basic training in the tools of sensory analysis, sensory skill, meticulousness
in the preparation, organisation and performance of the tests and skill and patience to plan and execute the tests in
a scientific manner.
They are the sole person responsible for selecting, training and monitoring the tasters in order to ascertain their
level of aptitude. They are thus responsible for the appraisal of the tasters, which must always be objective and for
which they must develop specific procedures based on tests and solid acceptance and rejection criteria. See
standard IOC/T.20/Doc. No 14, "Guide for the selection, training and monitoring of skilled virgin olive oil tasters".
Panel leaders are responsible for the performance of the panel and hence for its evaluation, of which they must
give reliable, objective proof. In any case, they must demonstrate at all times that the method and tasters are under
control. Periodic calibration of the panel is recommended (IOC/T.20/Doc. No 14, § 5).
They hold ultimate responsibility for keeping the records of the panel. These records must always be traceable.
They must comply with the assurance and quality requirements laid down in international sensory analysis
standards and ensure the anonymity of the samples at all times.
They shall be responsible for inventorying and ensuring that the apparatus and equipment needed to comply with
the specifications of this method is properly cleaned and maintained and shall keep written proof thereof, as well
as of the compliance with the test conditions.
They shall be in charge of the reception and storage of the samples upon their arrival at the laboratory as well as
of their storage after being tested. When doing so, they shall ensure at all times that the samples remain
anonymous and are properly stored, for which purpose they must develop written procedures in order to
ensure that the entire process is traceable and affords guarantees.
In addition, they are responsible for preparing, coding and presenting the samples to the tasters according to an
appropriate experimental design in line with pre-established protocols, as well as for assembling and statistically
processing the data obtained by the tasters.
They shall be in charge of developing and drafting any other procedures that might be necessary to complement
this standard and to ensure that the panel functions properly.
They must seek ways of comparing the results of the panel with those obtained by other panels undertaking the
analysis of virgin olive oil in order to ascertain whether the panel is working properly.
It is the duty of the panel leader to motivate the panel members by encouraging interest, curiosity and a
competitive spirit among them. To do so, they are strongly recommended to ensure a smooth two-way flow
of information with the panel members by keeping them informed about all the tasks they carry out and the
results obtained. In addition, they shall ensure that their opinion is not known and shall prevent possible leaders
from asserting their criteria over the other tasters.
They shall summon the tasters sufficiently in advance and shall answer any queries regarding the performance of
the tests, but shall refrain from suggesting any opinion to them on the sample.
7.2. Tasters
The people acting as tasters in organoleptic tests carried out on olive oils must do so voluntarily, with all the
ensuing consequences of such a voluntary act in terms of obligations and the absence of financial payment. It is
therefore advisable for candidates to submit an application in writing. Candidates shall be selected, trained and
monitored by the panel leader in accordance with their skills in distinguishing between similar samples; it should
be borne in mind that their accuracy will improve with training.
Tasters must act like real sensory observers, setting aside their personal tastes and solely reporting the sensations
they perceive. To do so, they must always work in silence, in a relaxed, unhurried manner, paying the fullest
possible sensory attention to the sample they are tasting.
Between 8 and 12 tasters are required for each test, although it is wise to keep some extra tasters in reserve to
cover possible absences.

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8. TEST
CONDITIONS
8.1. Presentation
of
the
sample
The oil sample for analysis shall be presented in standardised tasting glasses conforming to the standard IOC/
T.20/Doc. No 5 ‘Glass for oil tasting’.
The glass shall contain 14–16 ml of oil, or between 12,8 and 14,6 g if the samples are to be weighed, and shall be
covered with a watch-glass.
Each glass shall be marked with a code made up of digits or a combination of letters and digits chosen at random.
The code will be marked by means of an odourfree system.
8.2. Test
and
sample
temperature
The oil samples intended for tasting shall be kept in the glasses at 28 °C ± 2 °C throughout the test. This
temperature has been chosen because it makes it easier to observe organoleptic differences than at ambient
temperature and because at lower temperatures the aromatic compounds peculiar to these oils volatilise poorly
while higher temperatures lead to the formation of volatile compounds peculiar to heated oils. See the standard
IOC/T.20/Doc. No 5 “Glass for Oil Tasting” for the method which has to be used for heating the samples when in
the glass.
The test room must be at a temperature between 20 ° and 25 °C (see IOC/T.20/Doc. No 6).
8.3. Test
times
The morning is the best time for tasting oils. It has been proved that there are optimum perception periods as
regards taste and smell during the day. Meals are preceded by a period in which olfactory–gustatory sensitivity
increases, whereas afterwards this perception decreases.
However, this criterion should not be taken to the extreme where hunger may distract the tasters, thus decreasing
their discriminatory capacity; therefore, it is recommended to hold the tasting sessions between 10.00 in the
morning and 12 noon.
8.4. Tasters:
general
rules
of
conduct
The following recommendations apply to the conduct of the tasters during their work.
When called by the panel leader to participate in an organoleptic test, tasters should be able to attend at the time
set beforehand and shall observe the following:
— They shall not smoke or drink coffee at least 30 minutes before the time set for the test.
— They must not have used any fragrance, cosmetic or soap whose smell could linger until the time of the test.
They must use an unperfumed soap to wash their hands which they shall then rinse and dry as often as
necessary to eliminate any smell.
— They shall fast at least one hour before the tasting is carried out.
— Should they feel physically unwell, and in particular if their sense of smell or taste is affected, or if they are
under any psychological effect that prevents them from concentrating on their work, the tasters shall refrain
from tasting and shall inform the panel leader accordingly.
— When they have complied with the above, the tasters shall take up their place in the booth allotted to them in
an orderly, quiet manner.
— They shall carefully read the instructions given on the profile sheet and shall not begin to examine the sample
until fully prepared for the task they have to perform (relaxed and unhurried). If any doubts should arise, they
should consult the panel leader in private.
— They must remain silent while performing their tasks.
— They must keep their mobile phone switched off at all times to avoid interfering with the concentration and
work of their colleagues.
9. PROCEDURE
FOR
THE
ORGANOLEPTIC
ASSESSMENT
AND
CLASSIFICATION
OF
VIRGIN
OLIVE
OIL
9.1. Tasting
technique
9.1.1. The tasters shall pick up the glass, keeping it covered with the watch-glass, and shall bend it gently; they shall then
rotate the glass fully in this position so as to wet the inside as much as possible. Once this stage is completed, they
shall remove the watch-glass and smell the sample, taking slow deep breaths to evaluate the oil. Smelling should
not exceed 30 seconds. If no conclusion has been reached during this time, they shall take a short rest before
trying again.

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When the olfactory test has been performed, the tasters shall then evaluate the buccal sensations (overall retronasal
olfactory, gustatory and tactile sensations). To do so, they shall take a small sip of approximately 3 ml of oil. It is
very important to distribute the oil throughout the whole of the mouth cavity, from the front part of the mouth
and tongue along the sides to the back part and to the palate support and throat, since it is a known fact that the
perception of tastes and tactile sensations varies in intensity depending on the area of the tongue, palate and
throat.
It should be stressed that it is essential for a sufficient amount of the oil to be spread very slowly over the back of
the tongue towards the palate support and throat while the taster concentrates on the order in which the bitter and
pungent stimuli appear. If this is not done, both of these stimuli may escape notice in some oils or else the bitter
stimulus may be obscured by the pungent stimulus.
Taking short, successive breaths, drawing in air through the mouth, enables the taster not only to spread the
sample extensively over the whole of the mouth but also to perceive the volatile aromatic compounds via the back
of the nose by forcing the use of this channel.
The tactile sensation of pungency should be taken into consideration. For this purpose it is advisable to ingest the
oil.
9.1.2. When organoleptically assessing a virgin olive oil, it is recommended that FOUR SAMPLES at the most be
evaluated in each session with a maximum of three sessions per day, to avoid the contrast effect that could be
produced by immediately tasting other samples.
As successive tastings produce fatigue or loss of sensitivity caused by the preceding samples, it is necessary to use a
product that can eliminate the remains of the oil from the preceding tasting from the mouth.
The use of a small slice of apple is recommended which, after being chewed, can be disposed of in the spittoon.
Then rinse out the mouth with a little water at ambient temperature. At least 15 minutes shall lapse between the
end of one session and the start of the next.
9.2. Use
of
the
profile
sheet
by
tasters
The profile sheet intended for use by tasters is detailed in Figure 1 of this Annex.
Each taster on the panel shall smell and then taste ( 1 ) the oil under consideration. They shall then enter the
intensity with which they perceive each of the negative and positive attributes on the 10-cm scale shown in the
profile sheet provided.
Should the tasters perceive any negative attributes not listed in section 4, they shall record them under the "others"
heading, using the term or terms that most accurately describes the attributes.
9.3. Use
of
the
data
by
the
panel
leaders
The panel leader shall collect the profile sheets completed by each taster and shall review the intensities assigned to
the different attributes. Should they find any anomaly, they shall invite the taster to revise his or her profile sheet
and, if necessary, to repeat the test.
The panel leader shall enter the assessment data of each panel member in a computer program like that provided
by the standard IOC/T.20/Doc. No 15) with a view to statistically calculating the results of the analysis, based on
the calculation of their median. See sections 9.4 and Appendix to this Annex. The data for a given sample shall be
entered with the aid of a matrix comprising 9 columns representing the 9 sensory attributes and n lines
representing the n panel members used.
When a defect is perceived and entered under the "others" heading by at least 50 % of the panel, the panel leader
shall calculate the median of the defect and shall arrive at the corresponding classification.
The value of the robust coefficient of variation which defines classification (defect with the strongest intensity and
fruity attribute) must be no greater than 20 %.
If the opposite is the case, the panel leader must repeat the evaluation of the specific sample in another tasting
session.
If this situation arises often, the panel leader is recommended to give the tasters specific additional training
(IOC/T.20/Doc. No 14, § 5) and to use the repeatability index and deviation index to check panel performance
(IOC/T.20/Doc. No 14, § 6).
9.4. Classification
of
the
oil
The oil is graded as follows in line with the median of the defects and the median for the fruity attribute. The
median of the defects is defined as the median of the defect perceived with the greatest intensity. The median of the
defects and the median of the fruity attribute are expressed to one decimal place.
( 1 ) They may refrain from tasting an oil when they notice any extremely intense negative attribute by direct olfactory means, in which case
they shall record this exceptional circumstance in the profile sheet.

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The oil is graded by comparing the median value of the defects and the median for the fruity attribute with the
reference ranges given below. The error of the method has been taken into account when establishing the limits of
these ranges, which are therefore considered to be absolute. The software packages allow the grading to be
displayed as a table of statistics or a graph.
(a) Extra virgin olive oil: the median of the defects is 0 and the median of the fruity attribute is above 0;
(b) Virgin olive oil: the median of the defects is above 0 but not more than 3,5 and the median of the fruity
attribute is above 0;
(c) Lampante olive oil: the median of defect is above 3,5 or the median of the defect is less than or equal to 3,5
and the fruity median is equal to 0.
Note 1:
When the median of the bitter and/or pungent attribute is more than 5,0, the panel leader shall state so on the test
certificate.
Figure 1
PROFILE SHEET FOR VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
Intensity of perception of defects
Fusty/muddy sediment (*)
Musty/humid/earthy (*)
Winey/vinegary
acid/sour (*)
Frostbitten olives
(wet wood)
Rancid
Other negative attributes:
Descriptor: Metallic Hay Grubby Rough
Brine Heated or burnt Vegetable water
Esparto Cucumber Greasy
(*) Delete as appropriate
Intensity of perception of positive attributes
Fruity
Green
Ripe
Bitter
Pungent
Name of taster: Taster
code:
Sample code: Signature:

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Appendix
Method for calculating the median and the confidence intervals
Median
Me = [p (X < x m ) ≤ ^ p (X ≤ x

m ) ≥ ]
The median is defined as the real number X m characterised by the fact that the probability (p) that the distribution values
(X) are below this number (X m ), is less than and equal to 0,5 and that simultaneously the probability (p) that the
distribution values (X) are below or equal to X m is greater than and equal to 0,5. A more practical definition is that the
median is the 50th percentile of a distribution of numbers arranged in increasing order. In simpler terms, it is the
midpoint of an ordered set of odd numbers, or the mean of two midpoints of an ordered set of even numbers.
Robust standard deviation
In order to arrive at a reliable estimate of the variability around the mean it is necessary to refer to the robust standard
deviation as estimated according to Stuart and Kendall (4). The formula gives the asymptotic robust standard deviation,
i.e. the robust estimate of the variability of the data considered where N is the number of observations and IQR is the
interquartile range which encompasses exactly 50% of the cases of a given probability distribution:
1,25
s
IQR



1,35 p N
The interquartile range is calculated by calculating the magnitude of the difference between the 75th and 25th percentile.
IQR = 75th percentile - 25th percentile
Where the percentile is the value X pc characterised by the fact that the probability (p) that the distribution values are less
than X pc is less than and equal to a specific hundreth and that simultaneously the probability (p) that the distribution
values are less than or equal to X pc is greater than and equal to that specific hundredth. The hundredth indicates the
distribution fractile chosen. In the case of the median it is equal to 50/100.
n
n
percentile p X < x pc
p
100 ^ X x pc
100
For practical purposes, the percentile is the distribution value corresponding to a specific area subtended from the
distribution or density curve. To give an example, the 25th percentile represents the distribution value corresponding
to an area equal to 0,25 or 25/100.
In this method percentiles are computed on the basis of the real values which appear in the data matrix (percentiles
computing procedure).
Robust coefficient of variation (%)
The CVr% represents a pure number which indicates the percentage variability of the set of numbers analysed. For this
reason it is very useful for checking the reliability of the panel assessors.
s
CV


r Me 100
Confidence intervals of the median at 95%
The confidence intervals at 95% (value of the error of the first kind equal to 0,05 or 5%) represent the interval within
which the value of the median could vary if it were possible to repeat an experiment an infinite number of times. In
practice, it indicates the interval of variability of the test in the operating conditions adopted starting from the assumption
that it is possible to repeat it many times. As with the CVr%, the interval helps to assess the reliability of the test.
C.I. upper = Me + (c × s * )
C.I. lower = Me - (c × s * )
where C = 1,96 for the confidence interval at the 95% level.
An example of the calculation sheet is presented in Annex I to the standard IOC/T 20/Doc. No 15.

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References
(1) Wilkinson, L. 1990. Systat: The system for statistics. Evanston, IL.SYSTAT Inc.
(2) Cicchitelli, G. 1984. Probabilità e Statistica. Maggioli Editore, Rimini.
(3) Massart, D.L.; Vandeginste, B.G.M.; Deming, Y.; Michotte, L. 1988. Chemometrics. A textbook. Elsevier. Amsterdam.
(4) Kendall, M.G.; Stuart, A. 1967. The advanced theory of statistics. Vol. 1. Hafner Publishing Co.
(5) McGill, R.; Tukey, J.W.; Larsen, W.A. 1978. Variation of Box Plots. The American Statistician, 32, (2), 12-16.
(6) IOC/T.28/Doc. No 1 September 2007, Guidelines for the accreditation of sensory testing laboratories with particular
reference to virgin olive oil according to standard ISO/IEC 17025:2005.
(7) IOC/T.20/Doc. No 14.
(8) IOC/T.20/Doc. No 15.
(9) ISO/IEC 17025:05.’

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ANNEX VI
‘ANNEX XXa
METHOD FOR THE DETECTION OF EXTRANEOUS OILS IN OLIVE OILS
1. SCOPE
This method is used to detect the presence of extraneous vegetable oils in olive oils. High linoleic vegetable oils
(soybean, rapeseed, sunflower, etc.), and some high oleic vegetable oils - such as hazelnut, high oleic sunflower
and olive-pomace oils - can be detected in olive oils. The level detected depends on the type of extraneous oil and
the variety of olive. For hazelnut oil, a detection level between 5 and 15 % is common. The method is unable to
identify the type of extraneous oil detected, and only indicates if the olive oil is genuine or non-genuine.
2. PRINCIPLE
The oil is purified by solid phase extraction (SPE) on silica gel cartridges. The triacylglycerol (TAG) composition is
determined by reverse phase high resolution liquid chromatography using a refractive index detector and
propionitrile as the mobile phase. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) are prepared from purified oil by methylation
with a cold solution of KOH in methanol (Annex X B) and then the esters are analysed by capillary gas
chromatography using high polar columns (Annex X A). The theoretical triacylglycerol composition is calculated
from the fatty acid composition by a computer program assuming a 1,3-random, 2-random distribution of fatty
acids in the triacylglycerol, with restrictions for saturated fatty acids in the 2-position. The calculation method is a
modification of the procedure described in Annex XVIII. Several mathematical algorithms are calculated from
theoretical and experimental (HPLC) triacylglycerol compositions, and the resulting values are compared with
those contained in a database built from genuine olive oils.
3. MATERIAL
AND
REAGENTS
3.1. Oil
purification
3.1.1. 25-ml conical flasks.
3.1.2. 5-ml screw top glass tubes and caps fitted with PTFE joint.
3.1.3. Silica gel cartridges, 1 g (6 ml), for solid phase extraction (for example, Waters, Massachusetts, USA).
3.1.4. n-hexane, analytical grade.
3.1.5. Solvent mixture of hexane/diethyl ether (87:13, v/v).
3.1.6. N-heptane, analytical grade.
3.1.7. Acetone, analytical grade.
3.2. HPLC
analysis
of
triacylglycerols
3.2.1. Micro syringes (50 μL) and needles for HPLC injection.
3.2.2. Propionitrile, super purity or HPLC grade (for example, ROMIL, Cambridge, United Kingdom), used as mobile
phase.
3.2.3. HPLC column (25 cm × 4 mm internal diameter), packed with RP-18 phase (4 μm particle size).
3.3. Preparation
of
fatty
acid
methyl
esters
(See Annex X B)
3.3.1. Methanol containing not more than 0,5 % water.
3.3.2. Heptane, analytical grade.
3.3.3. A 2N solution of potassium hydroxide in methanol. Dissolve 1,1 g of potassium hydroxide in 10 ml of methanol.
3.3.4. 5-ml screw top glass tubes and caps provided with PTFE joint.
3.4. GC
analysis
of
FAMEs
(See method for the determination of trans-unsaturated fatty acids by capillary column gas chromatography set out
in Annex X A).
3.4.1 Micro syringes (5 μL) and needles for GC injection.
3.4.2 Hydrogen or helium as carrier gas.

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3.4.3 Hydrogen and oxygen for FID detector.
3.4.4 Nitrogen or helium as auxiliary carrier gas.
3.4.5. Fused silica capillary column (50-60 m × 0,25 – 0,30 mm internal diameter) coated with cyanopropylpolysiloxane
or cyanopropylphenylsiloxane phases (SP-2380 or similar) with 0,20-0,25 μm of film thickness.
4. APPARATUS
4.1. Vacuum
apparatus
for
solid
phase
extraction.
4.2. Rotary
evaporator.
4.3. HPLC
equipment
composed
of:
4.3.1. Degasser for the mobile phase.
4.3.2. Rheodyne injector valve with a 10 μL loop.
4.3.3. High pressure pump unit.
4.3.4. Thermostatic oven for the HPLC column capable of maintaining sub-ambient temperatures (15-20 °C), (for
example, Peltier type).
4.3.5. Refractive index detector.
4.3.6. Computerised data acquisition system provided with an integration program.
4.4 Capillary
gas
chromatography
equipment
described
in
Annex
X
A,
provided
with:
4.4.1. Split injector.
4.4.2. Flame ionisation detector (FID).
4.4.3. Oven with programmable temperature.
4.4.4. Computerised data acquisition system provided with an integration program.
4.5. Computer
with
Microsoft
EXCEL
program.
5. ANALYTICAL
PROCEDURE
5.1. Oil
purification
An SPE silica gel cartridge is placed in a vacuum elution apparatus and washed under vacuum with 6 ml of
hexane. The vacuum is released to prevent the column from drying and a conical flask is placed under the
cartridge. A solution of the oil (0,12 g, approximately) in 0,5 ml of hexane is loaded into the column and the
solution is pulled through and then eluted with 10 ml of the solvent mixture (3.1.5) of hexane-diethyl ether
(87:13 v/v) under vacuum. The eluted solvent is homogenised and approximately half of the volume is poured
into another conical flask. Both solutions are separately evaporated to dryness in a rotary evaporator under
reduced pressure at room temperature. For triacylglycerol analysis, one of the residues is dissolved in 1 ml of
acetone (See first paragraph of point 5.2) and poured into a 5-ml screw top glass tube. The other residue is
dissolved in 1 ml of n-heptane and poured into a second 5-ml screw top glass tube for preparing the fatty acid
methyl esters.
Note: Oil purification may be done using a silica gel column, as described in IUPAC method 2.507.
5.2. HPLC
analysis
of
triacylglycerols
Set up the HPLC system, maintaining the column temperature at 20 °C and using propionitrile as the mobile
phase at a flow rate of 0,6 ml/min. When the baseline is stable run a solvent injection; if the base line appears
disturbed in the region from 12 to 25 min, use another type of acetone or a mixture of propionitrile/acetone
(25:75) to dissolve the sample.
Note: Some types of acetone produce disturbances of the baseline in the above-mentioned region.
Inject a 10 μl aliquot of the solution of purified oil in acetone (5 %). The run takes approximately 60 min. Oven
temperature and/or flow rate must be adjusted to achieve a chromatogram similar to that depicted in Figure 1
where trilinolein (peak 1) elutes at 15,5 min and the resolutions between the pairs LLL/OLLn (peaks 1 and 2) and
OLL/OOLn (peaks 4 and 5) are good.
The height of peak 2 (OLLn+PoLL) must reach at least 3 % of the full scale.

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5.3. Preparation
of
fatty
acid
methyl
esters
Add 0,1 mL of a 2N solution of potassium hydroxide in methanol to the solution of purified oil in 1 mL of n-
heptane. Cap the tube and screw tight. Shake the tube vigorously for 15 seconds and leave to stratify until the
upper layer becomes clear (5 minutes). The n-heptane solution is ready to be injected into the gas chromatograph.
The solution may be left at room temperature for a maximum of 12 hours.
5.4. GC
analysis
of
fatty
acid
methyl
esters
The procedure described in the method for the determination of trans-unsaturated fatty acids must be used (see
Annex X A).
The GC system is set up at an oven temperature of 165 °C. The recommended oven temperature is isothermal at
165 °C for 10 min, then raising it to 200 °C at 1,5 °C/min. An injector temperature between 220 °C and 250 °C is
recommended to minimise the formation of trans-fatty acids (see Annex X A). Detector temperature 250 °C.
Hydrogen or helium must be used as the carrier gas at a column head pressure of 130 kPa, approximately.
Injection volume 1μL in split injection mode.
A GC profile similar to that shown in Figure 2 must be obtained. Special attention must be paid to the resolution
between C18:3 and C20:1 (the C18:3 peak must appear before the C20:1). To achieve these conditions, the initial
temperature and/or the column head pressure must be optimised. Adjust the injector conditions (temperature, split
ratio and volume injection) to minimise the discrimination of palmitic and palmitoleic acid.
The height of the C20:0 peak must be about 20 % of full scale to quantify the trans isomers. If the C18:0 peak
appears distorted, reduce the sample amount.
6. INTEGRATION
OF
CHROMATOGRAPHIC
PEAKS
6.1. HPLC
chromatogram
Figure 1 shows a typical HPLC chromatogram of the triacylglycerols of a purified olive oil. For peak integration,
three baselines must be traced: the first between the start of peak 1 and the end of peak 3; the second between the
start of peak 4 and the valley before peak 8; the third between the valley preceding peak 8 and the end of
peak 18.
The total area is the sum of the areas of all the peaks (identified and not identified) from peak 1 to peak 18.
The percentage of each peak is given by
TAG x (%) = 100 (A x + A T )
The percentages have to be given to two decimal figures.
6.2. GC
chromatogram
Figure 2 shows a GC chromatogram of fatty acid alkyl esters obtained from a purified olive oil. Percentages of the
following fatty acids must be calculated:
Palmitic; P
(C16:0)
= methyl
ester
+
ethyl
ester
Stearic; S
(C18:0)
= methyl
ester
Palmitoleic; Po
(C16:1) = sum of methyl esters of the two cis-isomers
Oleic; O
(C18:1) = sum
of
methyl
esters
of
the
two cis-isomers + ethyl ester + trans-isomers
Linoleic; L
(C18:2)
= methyl
ester+
ethyl
ester
+ trans-isomers
Linolenic; Ln
(C18:3) = methyl
ester
+ trans-isomers
Arachidic; A
(C20:0) = methyl
ester
Eicosenoic (gondoic); G
(C20:1) = methyl
ester
Ethyl and trans-isomers esters may be absent in the GC chromatogram.
Total area (AT) is the sum of all the peaks appearing in the chromatogram from C14:0 to C24:0, except that
corresponding to squalene. The percentage of each peak is calculated as follows:
FA x (%) = 100 (A x + A T )

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17.12.2013 Official
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The results have to be expressed to two decimal places.
For the calculations of the computer programs, it is not necessary to normalise to 100 because this is done
automatically.
Figure 1
HPLC chromatogram of TAGs of a “Chamlali” virgin olive oil. Main components of chromatographic
peaks
(1) LLL; (2) OLLn+PoLL; (3) PLLn; (4) OLL; (5) OOLn+PoOL;
(6) PLL+PoPoO; (7) POLn+PPoPo+PPoL; (8) OOL+LnPP; (9) PoOO;
(10) SLL+PLO; (11) PoOP+SPoL+SOLn+SPoPo; (12) PLP;
(13) OOO+PoPP; (14) SOL; (15) POO; (16) POP; (17) SOO;
(18) POS+SLS.
Table 1
Repeatability data of the determination of virgin olive oil TAGs by HPLC at a column temperature of
20 °C and using propionitrile as mobile phase
Sample 1 Sample
2 Sample
3 Sample
4 Sample
5










ECN HPLC
peaks
TAGs
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
r
r
r
r
r
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
1
LLL
0,020 7,23 0,066 5,18 0,095 4,10 0,113 0,95 0,34 1,05
42
2
OLLn+ PoLL
0,085 7,44 0,24 1,78 0,26 2,25 0,35 2,02 0,50 2,83
3
PLLn
0,023 15,74 0,039 5,51 0,057 5,62 0,082 4,35 0,12 6,15
4
OLL
0,47 1,52 1,53 0,42 2,62 0,98 3,35 1,05 4,37 1,13
5
OOLn+ PoOL
1,07 2,01 1,54 0,46 1,61 0,71 1,72 1,07 1,77 2,40
44
6
PLL+ PoPoO
0,11 12,86 0,24 4,37 0,65 1,32 1,35 0,73 2,28 1,24
POLn+
7
PpoPo+ PpoL
0,42 5,11 0,49 2,89 0,55 2,01 0,85 1,83 1,09 1,96
8
OOL+ LnPP
6,72 0,63 8,79 0,31 11,21 0,42 13,25 0,33 15,24 0,23
9
PoOO
1,24 2,86 1,49 0,95 1,63 0,85 2,12 0,45 2,52 0,56
46
10
SLL+ PLO
2,70 0,65 4,05 0,70 6,02 0,65 9,86 0,53 11,53 0,31
PoOP+ SpoL+
11
SOLn+ SpoPo
0,64 4,42 0,69 3,02 0,79 1,23 1,53 0,89 1,70 1,66

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L 338/66
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
17.12.2013
Sample 1 Sample
2 Sample
3 Sample
4 Sample
5










ECN HPLC
peaks
TAGs
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
(%)
r
r
r
r
r
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
Mean (%)
RSD
OOO+ PLP+
12+13 PoPP
49,60 0,07 48,15 0,06 42,93 0,06 33,25 0,10 24,16 0,06
48
14
SOL
0,82 1,72 0,92 1,56 1,05 1,32 1,25 1,05 1,60 1,77
15
POO
22,75 0,25 21,80 0,20 21,05 0,30 20,36 0,35 20,17 0,14
16
POP
3,05 0,46 4,56 0,42 4,98 0,52 5,26 0,41 5,57 0,38
50
17
SOO
6,87 0,21 5,56 0,33 4,86 0,43 4,12 0,72 3,09 0,69
18
POS+ SLS
1,73 1,23 1,65 1,10 1,54 0,99 1,49 1,10 1,41 1,00
n =
3
replicates
RSD r = Relative Standard Deviation of the repeatability
Figure 2
GC chromatogram of fatty acid alkyl esters obtained from an olive-pomace oil by transesterification with
a cold solution of KOH in methanol

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17.12.2013 Official
Journal
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European
Union L
338/67
7. DETECTION
OF
EXTRANEOUS
OILS
IN
OLIVE
OILS
The calculation method of the detection of extraneous oils in olive oils by means of a comparison of math
ematical algorithms with a data base built from genuine olive oils is set out in Annex I to standard IOC/T.20/Doc.
No 25.’

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Document Outline

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