Paying More For Your Olive Oil? Here’s Why

Author Morty

November 3rd, 2023 11:52 AM

Olive Oil prices higher than normal at grocery store.

Olive Oil is one of those things you just have to have in your kitchen. Whether you use it for cooking or mixing it with your favorite balsamic, you always make sure to have it stocked up. But recently, have you noticed the price has gone up?

WHAT?! The Price Went Up?

You open your cupboard and notice that your olive oil or extra virgin olive oil is very low. You throw it on your grocery list, then head to the store. You usually expect to pay a certain price for it, but you notice that price you normally pay has doubled.

According to the US Department of Agriculture, the global price for olive oil has in creased about 130% since last year. But why? According to NPR, its because they’ve had a two-year drought in Spain. That combined with record heat has cause the regions production to be cut in half.

Spain is the largest olive oil importer and exporter in the world. There are other places that produce olive oil though. Italy and Greece are the second largest producers of the popular oil. But just like Spain, they’re seeing climate changes and it’s causing they’re production to be cut down.

Will The Prices Go Ever Go Back Down?

If you’re expecting to see a drop in price in the next year, you may be setting yourself up for some disappointment. And the price increase for olive oil will affect you as a consumer in more ways than you know. Not only will your grocery bill go up, expect your dinners out to g up too. And if you’re a coffee person and go to places like Starbucks, expect those prices to go up. Those Oleato drinks will go up.

Alternatives If You Don’t Want To Pay The Price Increases

A lot of people are noticing the prices and looking for alternatives to olive oil. A lot of restaurants are doing it. One popular alternative is Avocado Oil. It provides almost the same health benefits people expect to get from olive oils. People are also turning to almond oil and sesame oil for cooking and roasting.

We have more on this story in today’s edition of a Few Things You Should Know.

Morty is the Executive Producer of “The Mike And Carla Morning Show” on 96.3 KKLZ. He's been a part of the show and station for 5 years. Aside from producing the morning show, he has served as production director for over 20 years. Those commercials you hear between the music, he produced a lot of them for Las Vegas! He loves music, playing guitar, all things Vegas Golden Knights, the Steelers, and his English Bulldog, Squish! He will talk forever with you on any of these things! Morty writes about peculiar news stories and Las Vegas happenings.

Steer Clear: 8 Grocery Store Behaviors to Avoid

Going to the grocery store is a routine task for many of us. It’s a place where we gather the essentials of daily life, and it can be a bit of a chore. Supermarkets are often busy and filled with several shoppers, and the experience can sometimes be overwhelming. One factor that can significantly impact our grocery store trips is the behavior of fellow shoppers. Many of us have left the grocery store in a less-than-stellar mood, whether it’s due to pushiness, rudeness, or simply being inconsiderate.

Grocery Store Behaviors

Supermarkets are like mini universes where everyone’s in their own little world. As we navigate the aisles and make our selections, it’s important to be mindful of our actions and how they can affect others. Being a considerate grocery shopper means being aware of your surroundings and thinking about others. This involves avoiding behaviors such as blocking aisles with your cart, leaving your cart unattended in inconvenient spots, or engaging in loud phone conversations that can disturb others. Instead, keep your cart to one side, move efficiently, and keep noise levels considerate.

Respecting personal space is another key aspect of good grocery shopping etiquette. We all move at different paces when we shop. And nobody likes feeling crowded, especially when trying to pick out your cereal. Don’t tailgate fellow shoppers, and if someone’s in your way, just be patient or politely ask if you can “scooch” past.

When it comes to selecting products, don’t turn into the hoarder of items, which can lead to empty shelves and inconvenience for others. Buying up everything in sight just creates stress for others. Grab what you need and leave some for the rest of us, especially during those crazy times when everyone’s stocking up. Also, don’t open packages or start sampling stuff unless the store gives you the green light.

Grocery shopping etiquette might not be rocket science, but it sure makes life easier for everyone. Since we spend so much time in these stores, let’s make it a good experience for everyone. Just be mindful of what you’re doing, respect personal space, and don’t be a hoarder or a package opener. The next time you’re on a grocery shopping adventure, remember that a little consideration can go a long way in making it enjoyable for you and your fellow shoppers.

Take a look at some additional grocery store behaviors to avoid below.

Disrespecting Employees
This should be common sense, but one of the fundamental rules of grocery store etiquette is to treat employees with respect and kindness. While it’s understandable to occasionally have moments of price shock or policy gripes. But don’t take it out on the people working at the grocery store. They’re not the ones setting the prices. Venting your frustration on employees is never the right approach. Refrain from raising your voice or engaging in arguments with cashiers and staff members on the sales floor.

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Packing Out the Express Checkout
We all love the quick in-and-out experience of using self-checkout for those small hauls. But the self-service lane loses its charm when people with massive shopping carts, loaded with groceries decide to set up camp there. It’s even worse when they have items needing special codes. So, think of self-checkout as the express lane, where it’s best to stick to around ten items or less. Using the express checkout lane with more items than the posted limit can hold up the line for others who are following the rules. It’s worth mentioning that many grocery stores are opting for more self-checkout lanes in their stores.

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Aisle Bites
You’ve probably seen people snacking on food they haven’t paid for yet at the grocery store. Some even take half-eaten items to the cashier to scan. This is not only rude but also unhygienic. It’s like treating the store as your personal buffet and it makes others uncomfortable. While satisfying your cravings is perfectly fine, there are better ways to go about it.

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Grocery Blocker
You’re bound to bump into a friend or neighbor while grocery shopping, but consider where you stop for a chat. If you see someone eyeing the produce behind you, it’s a good sign to wrap up and find a quieter spot. Keep in mind that grocery store catch-ups should be relatively short. It’s not the ideal time for lengthy reunions, especially if others are waiting to shop. The same courtesy applies to your shopping cart. Don’t park your cart smack in the middle and block the way for everyone else.

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Stashing Unwanted Groceries and Trash
If you change your mind about something while shopping, do everyone a favor and return it to where it belongs. Dumping unwanted items in random aisles instead of returning them to their proper creates frustration for both store employees and fellow shoppers. Nobody wants to discover a rogue carton of buttermilk sitting next to the potato chips. It makes the store messy, confuses people, and turns a simple grocery trip into a weird scavenger hunt. In some grocery stores, you might find cafes where you can stroll the aisles with a coffee or beverage in hand. Chances are you’ve come across half-empty Starbucks cups or abandoned water bottles among the store shelves. When you’ve finished your drink, it’s best to dispose of the cup or bottle properly.

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Leaving Your Grocery Cart Wherever
Bringing back your shopping cart is the most basic form of grocery store courtesy. Returning your shopping cart is a quick task and it’s a huge help for the store staff. Additionally, left-behind carts can lead to more significant problems. A deserted cart in the parking area may potentially cause damage to vehicles. A cart left behind inside can cause a roadblock in the store.

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Lack of Personal Space
When we’re shopping at the grocery store, give people their personal space. Whether browsing the aisles for your favorite snacks or waiting in line at the checkout, respecting personal space is key. No one likes feeling crowded or rushed while making their selections, and we all appreciate a bit of privacy when completing our transactions.

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Rude Cellphone Usage
When you’re at the store, try not to use your phone too much. It’s okay to make a quick call to roomie to ask about ketchup, but keep it quiet and brief. Save the catching up for later. Also, don’t text and push your cart at the same time because you might bump into something or someone. Lastly, unless you’re using your phone for digital coupons or rewards, it’s best to put it away during checkout.

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