Introduction
In the wake of a joint inspection by the Civil Guard and inspectors from the Andalusian Regional Government, the Directorate General of Public Health and Pharmaceutical Regulation has exposed a network of fraudulent olive oil producers in Spain. Containers labeled as ‘Extra Virgin Olive Oil’ or ‘Mild Olive Oil’ were found to contain misleading contents, comprising mixtures of seed oils and lampante oils unfit for consumption.
Unveiling the Deception
The investigation unfolded at an industrial facility in Mairena del Alcor, Sevilla, where edible oils were being packaged without proper sanitary registration or hygienic conditions. The probe revealed ties to companies in Campillo (Málaga), Almargen (Málaga), Baena (Córdoba), Lucena (Córdoba), Los Rosales-Tocina (Sevilla), Deifontes (Granada), and Murcia. The seized products, labels, and documents prompted the Civil Guard to seal the facility.
Among the deceitful brands identified were Carrero (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) and Esential (Mild Olive Oil), packaged for Oleotop Distribuciones in Los Rosales-Tocina, Sevilla; Carro (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), Producto España, Murcia; Aciencia (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), packaged by Aceites Tarama SA in Baena (Córdoba); Agricultor del Valle (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), and La Rama (Mild Flavor Olive Oil), both packaged by 16.006007/MA in Almargen (Málaga).
Additional brands implicated in the investigation included Oleo L.U.X.E. (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) and Oliv (Mild Olive Oil). Also mentioned were Scudo (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), packaged by Almazara la Ribera S.L. in Deifontes, Granada (a company deregistered since March 2023). The Regional Government highlighted an error in the label address (Márquez de Casa Blanca, 2), emphasizing its role in the fraudulent activities. Other brands found in the inspection were Tesoro de Oliva (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), Tierra de Arbequino (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), and Valle de Arbosana (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), all packaged by Hortelano Foods in Almargen (Málaga).
Immediate Actions and Regional Alerts
The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs has initiated control measures across all locations and has alerted the Murcia Region and the fraud and agri-food quality control authorities in Andalusia to take appropriate actions. Due to the clandestine nature of this operation, traceability data is unavailable, leaving uncertainty regarding potential exposure to consumers.
The Civil Guard has indicated that the fraudulent oils might have reached Los Rosales, Tocina, Sevilla, and Huelva. Despite no confirmed specific dangers, the Regional Government recommends caution due to the alleged fraudulent activity, lack of origin accreditation for raw materials, and the clandestine nature of the food-related operation.
Consumer Advisory
In light of these revelations, consumers are strongly advised not to purchase oils bearing the identified labels. For those who already possess such products, it is recommended to refrain from consumption and return them to the point of purchase for proper disposal, ensuring they do not re-enter the human or animal food chain. Ongoing coordination efforts between the Regional Government and the Civil Guard are focused on dismantling this clandestine packaging chain engaged in food fraud. Regular updates will be provided as significant developments unfold.
Conclusion
The exposure of fraudulent olive oil brands underscores the importance of vigilance in the food industry. Consumers must stay informed and exercise caution, especially in cases where products lack proper accreditation and traceability. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement and regulatory authorities are crucial in ensuring the safety and integrity of the food supply chain. Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing investigation into food fraud in the olive oil sector.
