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Greece's Olive Oil Consumption Plummets as Seed Oils Take Over Markets

Monday, 6 July 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Olive oil consumption in Greece has dropped sharply, according to data from international organizations and on-the-ground observations. The decline reflects a broader shift toward cheaper seed oils, which are increasingly displacing the traditional staple in Greek households and food supply chains. For tourists visiting Crete, this trend is worth noting: while high-quality extra virgin olive oil remains widely available at local markets, agrotouria shops, and specialty producers across the island, the shift means that not all restaurants or packaged food products automatically use olive oil as they once did. Visitors who want authentic Cretan olive oil should look for local producers, farmers markets, or certified PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) products. Crete remains one of Greece's top olive oil-producing regions, and direct purchases from estates offer the best quality guarantee.

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