A FAMILY LEGACY PASSED DOWN THROUGH GENERATIONS

Over 100 years ago, amongst the sun-drenched olive groves of Messinia, Greece, Christos and Magdalini Politis planted the seeds of a legacy - their first koroneiki trees. Their intention was to gift their family health and natural living through nature’s bounty.

"My father-in-law was very proud of his olive orchard. They were hands-on, working in the fields picking the olives."

- Peppy

How it all started

OUR BEGINNING

In 2018, under the guidance of Panayote Politis, Iyia (meaning health in Greek) was born with the intention of sharing a precious family staple - pure extra virgin olive oil - and inviting all to reap the health benefits of our liquid gold.

“He's probably smiling up there”

Since his passing in 2019, his wife Peppy, son Christopher, and daughter Megan have continued the work that he so lovingly started.

My dad was very passionate about starting this business. We're not just promoting an olive oil, we're sharing a legacy.

- Megan Politis

  • Respecting Nature's Rhythm

    The harvesting and production of Iyia’s EVOO has always relied on ancient methods, one’s that do not require heavy machinery or disruptions, but rather the simple touch of the hand and rake. This approach is fundamental in maintaining the health of the land, the olive trees and the purity of the oil.

  • Pure Health

    With its namesake in mind, it’s always been so integral for Iyia’s products to go beyond today’s food paradigms.
    We are all about delivering natural and traceable products, with the core belief that nature really does provide all the body & soul needs to maintain true iyia - health.

  • Authentic Flavour

    Once you experience the difference of IYIA olive oil, there's no going back. The pure, cold-pressed flavour speaks volumes about our commitment to quality. IYIA is more than just ingredients; it's an invitation to a world of authentic flavour. Let it transform your dishes and elevate your culinary experience.

"To me, it's extremely important to have a valuable product that is fully traceable and to maintain that status. I want people to see IYIA and recognize that it means quality. It really is something special”

- Christopher Politis

So, are you ready to taste the real deal?!

Grab your bottle and awaken your senses to a world of authentic flavour.

FAQ

What makes Koroneiki olives special?

Koroneiki olives have a distinct, robust flavor often described as fruity with hints of green apple and hazelnut, adding complexity and depth to dishes. They are also naturally rich in polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that contribute to the oil's bitterness and signature peppery after-taste, appreciated by many. Despite their smaller size compared to some olive varieties, Koroneiki olives are high-yield, producing a versatile extra virgin olive oil that can be used from salad dressings and drizzling to sautéing and finishing dishes

Can I cook with olive oil?

A common misconception about extra virgin olive oil is that it's unsuitable for cooking, but this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, cooking with extra virgin olive oil is not only safe but also recommended. Research has demystified the idea that an oil's smoke point is the sole determinant of its suitability for cooking. Instead, factors such as the presence of antioxidants and the oil's fat profile play a more significant role in its stability when heated. Extra virgin olive oil, rich in stable monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, is well-suited for various cooking methods, including deep frying, roasting, sautéing, and baking.

Does olive oil go bad?

Yes, olive oil can go bad, but its shelf life is quite long compared to other oils. Proper storage is key to maintaining its quality. When exposed to light, heat, and air, olive oil can oxidize, causing it to become rancid. To extend its shelf life, store olive oil in a cool, dark place, tightly sealed. When stored properly, it can last for up to two years or even longer, depending on factors such as the type of olive oil and how it's been processed. Signs that olive oil has gone bad include a rancid smell or taste, cloudiness, or an off color.

What does extra virgin mean?

"Extra virgin" is a term used to describe the highest quality and purest form of olive oil. When it comes to olive oil, "extra virgin" signifies that the oil has been produced by cold-pressing olives without the use of heat or chemicals. It also indicates that the oil has met specific standards regarding its acidity level (usually less than 0.8%), flavor, and aroma.

Extra virgin olive oil is prized for its superior taste, aroma, and nutritional value. It retains more of the natural antioxidants and vitamins found in olives compared to other refined oils. Additionally, it typically has a lower acidity level and a more robust flavor profile, ranging from fruity and peppery to grassy and buttery, depending on the variety of olives used and the region of production.

In summary, "extra virgin" denotes the highest quality and purest form of olive oil, characterized by its production process, taste, aroma, and nutritional content.

What does “cold pressed” mean?

"Cold pressed" means that olives are pressed at room temperature, typically below 26.5 degrees Celsius, without the use of heat or chemicals. This gentle extraction process helps retain the nutritional elements and flavors of the olives, resulting in high-quality olive oil. After the "first cold press," heat and detergents may be used to extract any remaining oil from the fruit mash, but this secondary oil is typically used for other purposes, such as virgin or industrial oils.

What are the health benefits of EVOO?

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is renowned for its numerous health benefits, thanks to its unique composition of healthy fats and powerful antioxidants. Here are some of the key health benefits associated with consuming EVOO:

  1. Heart Health: EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is known to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Regular consumption of EVOO has been linked to improved cholesterol levels and blood pressure regulation.
  2. Antioxidant Properties: EVOO contains potent antioxidants, such as polyphenols and vitamin E, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory effects and may contribute to a reduced risk of chronic diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
  3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The polyphenols in EVOO have been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and may reduce the risk of chronic inflammation-related diseases.
  4. Improved Digestive Health: EVOO has been associated with promoting digestive health by stimulating the production of bile and improving nutrient absorption. It may also have a protective effect against stomach ulcers and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
  5. Brain Health: Some studies suggest that the consumption of EVOO may support cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.
  6. Weight Management: Despite being calorie-dense, EVOO may actually aid in weight management when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Its high satiety value can help reduce overall calorie intake, and its monounsaturated fats may support metabolic health.
  7. Skin Health: EVOO is not only beneficial when consumed internally but also when applied topically. Its moisturizing and antioxidant properties make it a popular ingredient in skincare products, helping to hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative damage.

The difference between EVOO and other oils?

Extra virgin olive oil is like the VIP of olive oils – it's the cream of the crop, the best you can get! It's made simply by pressing olives, and it earns that "extra" title if it's got less than 1% free oleic acid and boasts top-notch taste, color, and aroma. So, when you see "extra" on the label, think "premium," or in our case "the real deal."

Now, when we talk about regular "olive oil," it's more like the mixed tape of oils. Producers start with basic virgin olive oils, then tweak them using all sorts of methods – mechanical, thermal, or even chemical – to end up with what's called "refined olive oil." It's bland and colorless.

And then there are olive oil blends, like those with canola oil thrown in. They're sometimes used as a wallet-friendly alternative to pure olive oil, but let's be real, they don't quite stack up to the greatness of extra virgin olive oil. Making top-notch olive oil is no joke – it's hands-on work, quite literally, since those olives often get picked by hand. So, yeah, it might cost a bit more, but trust us, it's worth it!

Do you offer free shipping on orders?

We offer free shipping within Montreal, Quebec.

How long will it take to get my order?

Our shipping policy appears below.

All shipping will be fulfilled using our carrier Canada Post, unless otherwise specified.

For Canada: Expedited Delivery Service 3-9 business days.
For the US: Canada Post Expedited Delivery Service 6-10 business days.

Tracking will be provided to the email given at checkout (within 48 hours) for every order. Duties and taxes are determined by the country's Custom Agency and the payment of these, if applicable, is the sole responsibility of the recipient.

Do you offer wholesale options for restaurants or retailers?

Are you a chef, store owner or caterer?

We have special prices on our products reserved for you and larger wholesale orders. Contact us via email.

Didn't find the answers you are looking for? Reach out to us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.