# Italian olive oil fraud and authenticity concerns > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italian-olive-oil-fraud-and-authenticity-concerns > Updated: 2026-10-14T16:34:41.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. Investigations and regulatory concerns regarding olive oil authenticity and fraud have emerged in Italy. In Palma di Montechiaro, the Agrigento Prosecutor's Office has extended an investigation into an organized group accused of selling seed oil mixed with pigments as extra virgin olive oil. The inquiry involves 24 individuals and six companies facing charges including criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and commercial fraud. Prosecutors also allege the group obtained over 2.5 million euros in public funds through fraudulent invoicing and non-existent operations. Concurrently, in Corato, the Mayor has requested an extraordinary inspection campaign by the ASL Bari. This request follows concerns from local producers regarding unfair competition, specifically the potential marketing of foreign products as ‘100% Italian’ at low prices. The requested inspections aim to verify product labeling, check for residues, and confirm the actual origin of the oil to ensure market transparency and food safety. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-14: Corato Mayor requests olive oil inspections to combat unfair competition Corato's Mayor has requested extraordinary inspections of extra virgin olive oil to combat unfair competition and ensure the authenticity of products labeled as 100% Italian. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/corato-mayor-requests-olive-oil-inspections-to-combat-unfair-competition ### 2026-09-23: Palma di Montechiaro olive oil fraud investigation extended Authorities in Agrigento have extended investigations into an organized olive oil fraud in Palma di Montechiaro, involving 24 suspects and alleged misappropriation of 2.5 million euros in public funds. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/palma-di-montechiaro-olive-oil-fraud-investigation-extended --- Cite as: Italian olive oil fraud and authenticity concerns. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italian-olive-oil-fraud-and-authenticity-concerns