The olive tree (Olea europaea) is a fruit plant. It is native to the Near East and it has been used for food since ancient times. Its fruits, which are the olives, are used for oil extraction and, to a lesser extent, for direct consumption in food. The use of olives as fruits requires specific treatments with various methods aimed at reducing the bitter taste, which is caused by the polyphenol content.

In the Old Testament, it is said that when the waters of the Great Flood began to recede, Noah flew a dove which returned carrying a branch of olive in its beak. In that moment Noah understood that the waters had retreated from the earth. The olive branch thus became the symbol of regeneration and peace among Jews, Christians and Muslims.