1000+ mg/kg polyphenols. Guaranteed minimum level.
Early Harvest is our limited edition from Vela Luka, Korčula. 100% Lastovka, early harvest, cold-extracted within 24 hours.
Polyphenols are natural antioxidants found in olive oil. Most commercial extra virgin olive oils contain under 150 mg/kg. Early Harvest provides 1000+ mg/kg – achieved by harvesting the olives before full ripeness, when the polyphenol concentration is at its highest. This deliberate choice results in an exceptionally rich, peppery flavour and the highest level of antioxidant richness we offer.
Early Harvest is sold with 1000+ mg/kg polyphenols as a guaranteed minimum level. If we do not reach the minimum level, it is not sold.
If you want to use olive oil daily at a lower price per litre, CORE offers 700+ mg/kg and is made for precisely that purpose.
Harvest information and laboratory testing
The 2026 harvest takes place in late September/early October. Each batch is analysed by an independent laboratory before it is sold. The method, laboratory and results will be published here when the analysis is complete. Read more about HPLC analysis of olive oil.
Olive variety: 100% Lastovka
Good for the body
Olive oil polyphenols contribute to the protection of blood lipids from oxidative stress. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 20 g of olive oil.
Packaging
500 ml in dark UV-blocking glass.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between CORE and EARLY HARVEST?
CORE has a guaranteed product level of at least 700+ mg/kg polyphenols and is made for daily use. EARLY HARVEST is harvested through an earlier and more selective production process, has a guaranteed product level of at least 1000+ mg/kg and is sold in a limited edition. Current batch data is published separately.
Does 1000+ mg/kg mean that the oil contains exactly 1000 mg/kg?
No. 1000+ mg/kg is a guaranteed minimum level, not a measured value. Each batch is analysed separately before it is sold, and if a batch does not reach its guaranteed level, it is not sold as EARLY HARVEST.
What does Vala Selection mean by high-polyphenol olive oil?
High-polyphenol is not a protected term with an established threshold. Vala Selection uses it for olive oil with a guaranteed product level: at least 700+ mg/kg for CORE and at least 1000+ mg/kg for EARLY HARVEST. The content is stated in milligrams of polyphenols per kilogram of oil.
How do I use the oil?
Use it without heating to preserve the flavour and polyphenols: take a spoonful in the morning, or use it over yoghurt, eggs, vegetables, fish or cooked food. About 20 g per day — approximately 1.5 tablespoons — is the amount referred to in the EU health claim for olive oil polyphenols. A 500 ml bottle then lasts about three weeks. Read more about olive oil in cooking.
Why does Vala Selection cost more than regular olive oil?
An early harvest produces a lower yield per olive — volume is exchanged for polyphenol content. The olives are cold-extracted within 24 hours of harvest, each batch is analysed by an independent laboratory, and the oil is not sold if it does not reach its guaranteed level. At 20 g per day, EARLY HARVEST costs approximately SEK 22 per day.
