NEWS
Bee Conservation In Jamaica: It’s Time

Jamaica has a rich history of beekeeping and is home to 69 varieties of bees. Its diverse Ecosystem is the reason why we can find over 500 specimens of these species in its National History Museum.
Unfortunately though, Jamaica, and indeed the entire world, is witnessing a dangerous decline in the population of honeybees.
The Food & Agricultural Organization (FAO) has already announced that the “Declining bee populations pose a threat to global food security and nutrition.”.
The woeful state of bee populations can be attributed to the destruction of their natural habitats, unsustainable farming practices, increasing air pollution, climate change, and unchecked use of pesticides & other chemicals. The small Caribbean country is already feeling the repercussions of eroding bee populations. And that has made bee conservationists such as Theon Ali, even more vocal about his worries. He has been campaigning for crucial steps to be taken for over a decade: “I have started in 2010 with a pollination awareness for schools because I wanted the new generations to be aware from a young age about the importance of bees in our environment.”
But this is not enough. Mr Theon Ali and his team have now been instrumental in helping bees regain their territory by:
• Supporting their beekeepers through funding campaigns
• Creating programs to conserve old meadows, sow plants that bear nectar, such as sunflowers or marigolds
• Encouraging the use of organic pesticides and time their sprays to cause little to no damage to bee populations.
“These steps will help conserve not just the biological diversity but also the cultural heritage of Jamaica. I hope that countries around the globe appreciate the critical nature of their native bee populations and take steps to conserve them before it is too late”

Umar Nisar was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Umar Nisar has contributed to many online publications including PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Umar Nisar earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Umar Nisar follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.
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NEWS
The Truth About Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Debunking Common Myths

Imagine strolling through the grocery store, looking for extra virgin olive oil to add to your healthy meals. You reach for a bottle labeled “cold-pressed,” thinking it must be the way to go. But wait, is it the best option?
The truth about cold press extra virgin olive oil may surprise you. In this blog post, we’ll debunk some common myths surrounding this popular oil and give you the facts you need to make the best choice for your next meal.
Myth 1: All Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is Cold Pressed
There is a common misconception that all extra virgin olive oil is cold pressed, but this is not necessarily true. While cold pressing is a traditional method of extracting olive oil, it is not the only method. Many large-scale producers use modern, mechanical processing techniques that involve high heat and chemicals, which can alter the taste and quality of the oil.
The term “cold pressed” on a label does not necessarily mean that the oil was extracted using this traditional method. To ensure you get true cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, look for certifications and labels that specifically mention cold pressing. It will guarantee that you are getting the highest quality and purest form of olive oil available.
Myth 2: Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can Only Be Used for Salads and Light Cooking
Another common myth is that you can only use it for salads and light cooking. However, this is not true. While it is true that extra virgin olive oil is often used as a finishing oil for salads, you can only use it for various other cooking methods.
Its high smoke point makes it suitable for sautéing, roasting, and even deep frying. There are a lot of cold press extra virgin olive oil recipes. The low acidity in extra pure olive oil makes it a healthier choice for cooking different recipes than other vegetable oils. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t be afraid to reach for that bottle of extra virgin olive oil for all your cooking needs.
Myth 3: Light Olive Oil Is Lower in Calories
There is a common myth surrounding light olive oil, claiming it is lower in calories than regular extra virgin olive oil. However, this is only partially true. While light olive oil may seem more delicate in texture and flavor, it contains the same calories as regular extra virgin olive oil.
The term “light” on the label refers to the color and flavor, not the caloric value. Cold press extra virgin olive oil, obtained through a natural process without using heat or chemicals, contains beneficial antioxidants and healthy monounsaturated fats, making it a more intelligent choice for those watching their calorie intake. Don’t fall for the myth that light olive oil is lower in calories; choose cold press extra virgin olive oil nutrition for a healthier option.
Myth 4: Color Is an Indicator of Quality
Many people believe that the color is a clear indicator of its quality. However, this is not true. The color of olive oil can vary greatly, depending on a variety of factors such as the type of olives used, the harvest time, and the cold press extra virgin olive oil production process.
While a deeper, golden color may be perceived as a sign of high quality, it is essential to note that some high-quality olive oils can have a greenish or even darker hue. Ultimately, the color of the oil should not be used as the sole determinant of its quality.
Myth 5: All Olive Oil Is Created Equal
Many believe that all olive oil is created equal, but this is untrue. The term “extra virgin” is not just a marketing ploy. It signifies the highest quality of olive oil.
Cold pressing refers to the process of extracting oil from olives without using heat or chemicals, preserving the oil’s integrity. This results in a superior-quality oil that is rich in antioxidants and has a distinct flavor profile.
Not all olive oils go through this process, making cold press extra virgin olive oil production stand out among the rest. Choosing carefully when purchasing olive oil is essential, as not all are created equal. For reference on the best one, you can check out early harvest olive oil.
Myth 6: Cooking Olive Oil Makes Free Radicals
There is a common myth surrounding cooking with cold press extra virgin olive oil that it can produce harmful free radicals. However, this is only partially true. While it is true that heating any oil can lead to the formation of free radicals, the smoke point determines how much free radicals are produced.
It has a higher smoke point than regular olive oil, making it a safer option for cooking. Also, the antioxidants present in this type of oil can help counteract the formation of free radicals. So, while cooking with oil can produce free radicals, cold press extra virgin olive oil benefits is a healthier choice.
Myth 7: Olive Oil Always Tastes Smooth
There is a common misconception that all extra virgin olive oil is smooth and devoid of any bitterness or pungency. However, this is not true for cold press extra virgin olive oil. While it is widely considered the highest quality olive oil, it is also known to have a certain level of bitterness and peppery notes.
It is because it is extracted naturally without using heat or chemicals, which preserves its natural flavors and nutrients. So, the next time someone tells you that all olive oils are smooth, remember that it is just a myth, and don’t be afraid to embrace the bold and robust taste of cold press extra virgin olive oil.
Debunk the Common Myths on Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil
It is clear that despite common misconceptions, cold press extra virgin olive oil is still the healthiest and most beneficial option for cooking and consuming. We can confidently incorporate this nutritious oil into our diets by debunking myths.
So next time you’re at the store, reach for that cold press extra virgin olive oil and reap its many benefits. Try it out for yourself and join the movement towards better health.
Did you find this article helpful? If so, check out the rest of our blog for more informative content!
