Olives (Olea europaea) are a fruit from the olive tree, widely cultivated in Mediterranean climates and highly valued for their culinary uses and the production of olive oil.

• • Culinary:
    • Whole Olives: Eaten as snacks, appetizers, or used in salads, tapenades, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
    • Olive Oil: One of the most significant uses of olives is to produce olive oil, which is widely used in cooking, dressing, and as a finishing oil.
    • Olive Paste (Tapenade): Made from crushed olives, this paste is often used as a spread or dip.
  • Olive Oil Production: Olives are pressed to extract their oil, which can range from extra virgin (high-quality, cold-pressed) to refined olive oils used for cooking.
  • Cosmetic and Medicinal Uses: Olive oil is also used in soaps, lotions, and other skincare products due to its moisturizing properties and is sometimes used in traditional medicine for its health benefits.

• Fats: Olives are high in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is linked to heart health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: They are a good source of vitamin E, iron, copper, and calcium.
• Antioxidants: Olives contain several antioxidants, including polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Low in Carbs: Olives are low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

• Green Olives: Harvested before they are fully ripe, green olives tend to have a firmer texture and a more bitter taste. They are often cured in brine or water to reduce their bitterness.
• Black Olives: These are harvested when fully ripe, and they tend to have a softer texture and a milder flavor. Like green olives, they are also often cured in brine, oil, or dry salt.
• Processed Olives: Many olives are processed to create products like pitted, stuffed, or sliced olives for various culinary uses.

• Major olive producers include countries around the Mediterranean, such as Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Tunisia. Spain is the largest producer, followed by Italy and Greece.
• Olive Oil Exports: Olive oil is a major export commodity for many Mediterranean countries, with demand for extra virgin olive oil particularly strong due to its health benefits.