Ulja

Ulja is a term used in several South Slavic languages to refer to edible oils. The base noun ulje means oil, and ulja is typically the plural form used when speaking of different oils or types of oil, and may appear in dialects or on product labels.

Common varieties include olive oil (ulje maslinovo), sunflower oil (ulje suncokretovo), canola oil (ulje repičino), sesame oil (ulje sezamovo), and coconut oil (ulje kokosovo). Oils are produced by pressing seeds or fruits and may be refined, cold-pressed, or deodorized.

Ulja are widely used for cooking, frying, baking, and flavoring. Olive oil serves as a primary ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes; other oils are used for frying, dressings, and general preparation. They also have cosmetic and industrial applications, such as lubricants and components in personal care products.

Quality and labeling vary by oil type. For olive oil, terms such as ekstra djevičko (extra virgin) describe unrefined oil. Other oils are often labeled by the source and processing method (cold-pressed, refined) and by packaging indicating origin and freshness.

Storage and safety considerations include keeping oils in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. Some oils are more prone to oxidation and should be stored tightly sealed; shelf life varies by oil and processing method. Proper storage helps maintain flavor, nutrition, and safety.