Understanding Fused vs. Infused Olive Oils

There are always questions regarding the use of the term “fused” by retailers offering oils that are not produced using true mechanical crushing methods. We’d like to take a moment to clarify what this term means and why it matters.

A Brief History

Agrumato is a traditional Italian method in which fresh olives are crushed together with whole, fresh ingredients—such as citrus, herbs, or vegetables, using a cold mechanical extraction process. The word “agrumato” was largely unfamiliar outside of Italy. To make this process more accessible, Veronica Foods introduced the term “fused” to describe these oils. Over time, “fused” became widely associated with this specific, artisanal method and was effectively coined by Veronica Foods to represent true agrumato production.

Why True Agrumato Is Rare

Authentic agrumato production is both complex and demanding. It requires precise timing and coordination, as both olives and fresh ingredients must be harvested and milled within hours to preserve their quality and flavor.

The process is labor-intensive and requires careful formulation. Each oil must be developed over multiple harvest seasons to achieve the right balance, determining exactly how much fresh produce is crushed with a specific volume of olives. This is not a process that allows for small test batches; it takes experience, patience, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship.

At the Veronica Foods mill, production runs continuously during harvest, and every batch reflects decades of refinement. Over the years, this dedication has earned us global recognition and numerous awards for quality and authenticity.

Clarifying the Misuse of “Fused”

Given the complexity and cost of producing true agrumato oils, they remain relatively rare. Unfortunately, we’ve seen the term “fused” used to describe products that are actually infused, meaning flavor is added after the oil is produced, rather than during the crushing process. We believe this misuse can create confusion for customers seeking authentic agrumato oils. Clear terminology helps ensure transparency and allows consumers to make informed choices.

Accuracy Matters

To promote clarity, we encourage the use of the term “agrumato” when referring to oils made through true co-crushing methods. This helps preserve the integrity of the process and ensures that customers understand exactly what they’re purchasing.

We remain committed to producing authentic agrumato olive oils using traditional methods, and to maintaining the highest standards of quality that have defined our work for decades.