Virgin olive oil is made from the pressing of olives without the use of heat or chemicals. It is considered to be of higher quality and has a more pronounced flavor compared to refined olive oil. Virgin olive oil also retains more of the natural antioxidants and vitamins found in olives.
Refined olive oil, on the other hand, is made from refining virgin olive oil. It undergoes a process of refining, which involves filtering and heating to remove impurities and neutralize the taste. Refined olive oil has a milder flavor and lighter color compared to virgin olive oil.
In summary, the main differences between virgin and refined olive oil are the production process, flavor, color, and nutritional content. Virgin olive oil is known for its strong flavor and higher nutritional value, while refined olive oil has a milder taste and lighter color due to the refining process.