Croatia’s olive oil market under scrutiny after inspection results

ZAGREB, 24 March 2026 – Almost one-third of extra virgin olive oil samples tested during inspections in Croatia last year failed to meet required standards, according to official data released by the State Inspectorate.

The information was provided following a request for details about market controls after concerns were raised publicly over the quality of olive oil available to consumers.

Although documentation produced during inspection procedures is legally protected as confidential, the State Inspectorate confirmed key figures relating to the scope of inspections and the irregularities discovered, Slobodna Dalmacija reported.

During 2025, agricultural inspectors carried out checks in line with their annual work programme. The inspections focused primarily on extra virgin olive oil and pumpkin seed oil available on the Croatian market.

In total, 30 samples of extra virgin olive oil were taken and analysed in authorised official laboratories.

The testing examined both quality characteristics – including organoleptic assessment (taste and aroma) – and purity parameters, in accordance with European Union market standards set out in the European Commission’s delegated regulations on olive oil.

The results showed that nine of the 30 samples analysed did not meet required standards, representing almost a third of the oils tested.

According to the Inspectorate:

• Five samples failed solely on organoleptic assessment

• Two samples failed both organoleptic testing and certain quality parameters

• Two samples failed organoleptic testing and purity or authenticity requirements

In two cases, authorities issued formal decisions ordering the products to be withdrawn from the market. Misdemeanour proceedings were also launched against the responsible food business operators.

The State Inspectorate said that non-compliant olive oils are no longer available on the Croatian market.

Officials also noted that in many cases the disputed products were already unavailable by the time laboratory results arrived, or the businesses involved had voluntarily removed them from sale. Because of this, formal bans on placing the products on the market were not always necessary.

Croatian law provides substantial financial penalties for irregularities related to the authenticity of olive oil.

Fines can range from:

• €3,980 to €6,630 for companies

• €660 to €1,320 for responsible persons within companies

• €2,650 to €3,980 for tradespeople and sole operators

• €660 to €1,320 for private individuals

The findings once again raise questions about the reliability of product labelling and the actual quality of olive oil sold on the market.

Experts from the public health institute “Dr Andrija Štampar” warn that substitute ingredients sometimes found in fraudulent olive oil are often of very poor quality and may even contain mineral oils.

While the names of producers and retailers involved have not been made public, the figures underline the importance of regular inspections in protecting both consumers and legitimate producers.