What does high-phenolic mean? The term refers to olive oils that contain elevated levels of naturally occurring polyphenols — bioactive compounds responsible for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cellular defense benefits. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), oils with >250 mg/kg of hydroxytyrosol and related compounds may claim to protect blood lipids from oxidative stress ¹.

At MILESTONE®, our oils exceed this threshold dramatically — reaching over 1,000 mg/kg of total phenolics, validated via HPLC and Folin–Ciocalteu analysis ².

• Oleocanthal: Gives the peppery bite — acts like ibuprofen by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes
• Oleacein: Bitter and astringent — powerful antioxidant and NF-κB inhibitor
• Hydroxytyrosol & tyrosol: Found in free and bound form — protect LDL from oxidation

So when we ask what does high-phenolic mean, we’re really asking: how much of these powerful molecules are present — and preserved?

• MILESTONE® olive oils offer pharmaceutical-grade phenolic density — up to 10x more than standard extra virgin oils
• They are analyzed under controlled, cold-pressed, and unfiltered conditions to preserve compound integrity
• High-phenolic oils act on gene expression (e.g., SIRT1, PPARγ), reduce oxidative stress, and modulate inflammation

True high-phenolic olive oil is not just extra virgin — it’s clinically potent and functionally verified ³.

If you’ve ever asked what does high-phenolic mean, the answer is simple: a food that crosses into therapeutic territory. Clinically meaningful, analytically tested, and rich in natural defense compounds.

Tip: High-phenolic oils should list polyphenol content (mg/kg) and analytical method. If it’s not tested, it’s not therapeutic.