Why oil is expensive and often mediocre in Switzerland (and what you can do about it)
In Switzerland, buying a good extra virgin olive oil is often a challenge. Prices are high, labels promise a lot… but the taste (and quality) rarely live up to expectations. Why does this happen? And above all: how can you choose better, without spending more?
1. The illusion of the label
Many Oils on Swiss shelves carry the words “Italian” or “Extra Virgin,” but the truth is:
- They are often not produced in Italy, but are only “packaged” in Italy
- They come from blends of Oils of different origins, EU or non-EU
- They undergo industrial processes that compromise taste and benefits
- They are often sold by resellers, i.e., companies that buy the Oil from producers and resell it under their own brand name
Basically: you pay for an image, not for content.
2. Inflated prices, low quality
We are not talking about taste, for which everyone has their own, but about quality.
On average, a liter of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVO) in Switzerland costs twice as much as in Italy.
Why? Here are some reasons:
- Intermediate steps: manufacturers → wholesalers → distributors → retailers
- Marketing and packaging costs
- Consumer difficulty in intercepting quality Oil.
The result? High prices for an Oil that does not meet expectations.
3. The problem is not you, it is the supply chain
The Swiss consumer is not at fault; he often chooses from what stores offer him. The problem is that there is a lack of direct producers who sell transparently and without commercial filters.
And that’s where we at Agricola Chiera come in.
4. What we do differently
- We have been producing Oil since 1906 with 500 hectares of our own olive groves
- We cultivate in Calabria, Puglia and on Lake Garda
- We squeeze and bottle directly, without unnecessary steps
- Now we are also present in Switzerland, in Lugano with our first physical store and throughout Switzerland with our online shop.
The result? From us you buy directly from the producer. From our lands to your table. From us you find only quality products, you find an Oil:
- Authentic and 100% Italian
- Traceable throughout its supply chain
- Perfect for your taste (Delicate, Fruity, BIO, Coratina and Garda)
- Sold at fair prices, directly from those who produce it
5. How you can make a better choice today
- Choose an Oil whose origin you can know
- Demand transparency on production
- Taste: good Oil is felt, not told
If you want to try our oil:
- Come visit us in Lugano
- Or visit the online shop
Conclusion
In a world where Oil all looks the same, choosing well makes a difference. Not just for taste, but for health, for the environment, and to support those who have been working the land for generations.
Chiera Family, the Family of Taste.
