When I posted about Island Natural Market last week I featured a photograph displaying Georgia Olive Farms Extra Virgin Olive Oil. I knew of the company since Chef Dave Snyder mentioned it to me in a conversation several months ago. Seeing the actual product on a shelf, in a store, piqued my curiosity. I contacted the company, asking their permission to feature this fine product on my blog and received a hearty “Yes” as an answer.
I am so impressed with what this company is doing. Not only am I interested in better health, I am interested in products and produce that are locally grown. It’s a “growing” trend that benefits us all. Moving away from processed, high fat foods toward a healthier “Mediterranean” diet has proven to be the ticket to better health.
These grapes are grown in the Lakeland, Georgia area by a group of farmers who are concerned with providing an unimported olive oil. The process is not an easy one. With the help of mechanical “pickers” fashioned from a blueberry harvester, the olives are carefully gathered then sped to a site in Texas for pressing. The whole process has to take place within 24 hours so the olives do not begin to ferment. The time and care involved produces an extra virgin olive oil that is slightly peppery with a clear, fruity finish.
Sam & Jason Shaw
Since 99% of the olive oil we use in the United States is imported and probably two years old by the time it reaches our kitchen, the possibility of having fresh, extra virgin olive oil from locally grown olive trees is very exciting. Olive oil has been found to play a large role in the health of the body. It can encourage a higher metabolism, help with issues involved in cardiovascular health, cancer and obesity prevention as well as many other uses.
The production of Georgia Olive Farms oil has been referred to as the new “gold rush”. This oil combines a blend of Koroneiki, Arbosana, and Arbequina olives. The finished product is light, delicious and ready to be drizzled over fresh vegetables or used for dipping a delicious artisan bread, and, of course, I’m thinking PESTO!
Jason Shaw, one of the founders of the cooperative, comes from a long line of farmers. He spent a semester in Italy learning about making olive oil and came back determined to grow olive trees on his family farm. The rest is history. What began as a sort of experiment three years ago has certainly paid off with over 200 acres involved in production at this point and a product that is receiving national acclaim. Read more about Georgia Olive Farms here: http://georgiaolivefarms.com.
Chef’s throughout our area are using and singing the praises of Georgia Olive Farms Extra Virgin Olive Oil. I’m sure you’ll recognize this famous local chef! Here’s to you Chef Dave for introducing me to yet another great local product! And since this is made in the U.S.A. you can order it from anywhere in the country and the company will gladly ship to you.
Georgia Olive Farms Growers – P.O. Box 245 – Lakeland, Georgia 31635 –
229-483-3505
