Texas Olive Oil Production
Olive production is an emerging industry in Texas. The Lone Star state’s climate is well suited for olive trees in certain areas and the global popularity of Extra Virgin Olive Oil provides vast opportunities for Texas olive growers.
Similarly, the Texas olive oil industry benefits health-conscious consumers looking for trustworthy, local sources of fresh olive oil. Here is a quick overview of the state’s fastest growing agricultural commodity sector.
Olive Oil by the Numbers
Olive oil has been produced in the United States for more than 150 years.
There are approximately 40,000 acres of olives planted exclusively for the production of olive oil in the United States. This production acreage is spread across several states including California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, Florida, Oregon and Hawaii.
US consumers use 90 million gallons of olive oil annually – the largest market outside of the European Community. The US produces approximately 5% of this amount on a yearly basis.
Best Areas for Olive Growing and Olive Oil Production in Texas
The olive is an exotic fruit crop in Texas. Olives are native to the Mediterranean Basin, which typically has mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. In contrast, Texas sometimes experiences winter freezes that can devastate olive trees. The most favorable area in Texas to attempt commercial olive production is in the southwest region north of Laredo and southwest of San Antonio (known as the Winter Garden).
The 'Other' Texas Oil Boom
There are several Texas Olive growers around the state—Bella Vista Ranch, in Wimberley; Lone Star Olive Ranch, in Madisonville; Central Texas Olive Ranch, in Granger. Consumers who frequent farmers’ markets in Texas have grown accustomed to seeing locally produced olives and olive oil products.
Texas Foods Direct is pleased to offer several varieties of locally produced Texas Olive Oil.
Visit our Texas Olive Oil Collection Here