Crete launches olive oil quality training for producers

The Region of Crete, the Hellenic Mediterranean University (ELMEPA), and the Hellenic Agricultural Organization ‘DEMETER’ (ELGO) are conducting a series of educational training sessions for olive producers, millers, and standardizers. These sessions focus on the quality of ‘Kriti’ PDO Extra Virgin Olive Oil as part of the ‘Crete European Region of Gastronomy 2026’ project.

The training program includes scheduled activities in the municipalities of Rethymno, Faistos, Hersonissos, and Platanias. Topics covered include olive cultivation best practices, harvesting, standardization, and the prevention of contamination. The program also presents the ELGO-DEMETER PDO/PGI certification and control system.

Following successful sessions in Heraklion and Viannos, the initiative aims to expand these educational actions across the entire island of Crete to support local producers and maintain high quality standards.