By Faridat Salifu
Palestinian authorities have raised concerns over a rise in olive oil fraud to 4 percent, highlighting environmental and sustainability risks linked to adulteration and illegal production.
The Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement issued on Monday, November 25, 2025, that 78 out of 1,900 samples tested this season were non-compliant, and seven cases have been referred to the Public Prosecution for legal action.
Officials explained that limited production, rising demand, economic pressures, and restricted access to farmlands are creating conditions that encourage unsafe practices and compromise quality.
The ministry noted that adulterated oils can harm both soil and ecosystems if substandard chemicals are used, and also undermine sustainable farming practices built over generations.
Testing is conducted in line with Palestinian specification No. 188/2025 and International Olive Council standards, ensuring acidity, peroxide levels, and chemical admixtures are checked to protect environmental and public health.
Authorities said that 96 percent of samples still meet quality standards, preserving the integrity of Palestinian olive oil and supporting sustainable agricultural systems.
The ministry stressed that misinformation exaggerating fraud or confiscated volumes can distract from efforts to maintain sustainable production and responsible farming practices.
Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious products and bring samples to ministry laboratories, helping safeguard both environmental and economic sustainability.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strict monitoring, legal action, and ongoing inspections to prevent practices that could damage the land, ecosystems, and the long-term viability of Palestinian olive oil production.
Officials said protecting this national product is critical for conserving natural resources, promoting safe agriculture, and maintaining trust in environmentally responsible farming.
