Quality in olive oil doesn’t end with production — it must be protected until it reaches the consumer. The bottle cap plays a critical role here. Especially the DOP cap (drop-stop, tamper-evident, non-refillable cap), which has become indispensable for premium producers as a guarantee of authenticity and safety.
What Is a DOP Cap?
- Definition: A DOP cap is a special safety cap that breaks its seal upon first opening and cannot be refilled.
- Purpose: To guarantee product authenticity and protect the consumer until the bottle is opened.
Why Use a DOP Cap?
1. Protection Against Fraud
Olive oil fraud is common in the market. Regular screw-top bottles can be opened and refilled with low-quality oils. A DOP cap prevents refilling after opening, ensuring that the consumer receives 100% authentic oil.
2. Hygiene & Safety
Bottles with DOP caps remain sealed after filling at the factory. This eliminates any risk of contamination from microbes, dirt, or additives.
3. Freshness Protection
Because the bottle stays fully sealed until opened, air contact is minimized and the oil stays fresh longer.
4. Professional Presentation
DOP caps are especially important for restaurants and hotels. They preserve authenticity and build customer trust. In many European countries, using DOP-sealed olive oil bottles in restaurants is now mandatory.
5. Drip-Free & Controlled Pouring
Modern DOP caps include a drop-stop mechanism. This ensures clean, controlled pouring without dripping — preventing waste and offering elegant table service.
Global Use of DOP Caps
- Italy & Spain: Since 2014, DOP caps are mandatory in restaurants. Today, almost all premium European producers use them.
- Türkiye: Not mandatory yet, but premium brands use DOP caps as a quality marker.
When choosing olive oil, don't just look at acidity, polyphenol values, or packaging. Check the cap too. A DOP-sealed bottle guarantees authenticity, freshness, and hygienic bottling.