Territorial investigation based on the chemical composition of Chemlali virgin olive oils

摘要

The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in the chemical composition of virgin olive oils from the Chemlali variety cultivated in different olive growing areas of the Centre of Tunisia. All samples were harvested using the same controlled procedures and were submitted to a controlled processing in the same laboratory mill. Several analytical parameters and indices were determined. Results showed that the oils quality was attributed not only to the olive variety but also to the plantation site, therefore to climatic and pedologic factors. All these parameters showed an important effect on the fatty acid, phenol, α-tocopherol, sterol and volatile contents of the oils.