Scientific (Botanical) Name is Olea europaea
Olives are too bitter to be eaten right off the tree and must be cured to reduce their intrinsic bitterness. Processing methods vary with the olive variety, region where they are cultivated, and the desired taste, texture and color. Some olives are picked unripe, while others are allowed to fully ripen on the tree.
The color of an olive is not necessarily related to its state of maturity. Many olives start off green and turn black when fully ripe. However, some olives start off green and remain green when fully ripe, while others start of black and remain black.
Nutrition Facts
Olives contain 115–145 calories per 100 grams, or about 59 calories for 10 olives (assuming that an average olive weighs 4 grams). They consist of 75–80% water, 11–15% fat, 4–6% carbs and minor amounts of protein.
Health Benefits of Olives
1. Antioxidant Properties
2. Improved Heart Health
3. Improved Bone Health
4. Cancer Prevention