Read the Label. There are several important facts you can get from the label. Make sure what it says on the front matches what's on the ingredient label. If you're buying hazelnut oil, the ingredient label should say something about hazelnuts. Even products from foreign countries should have ingredient labels in English. However, this rule does not seem to be enforced too strictly.
Very important is the expiration date. Certain specialty items don't move very quickly on the shelf and may be past their expiration date. A reputable gourmet store will remove these items when expired. If you find more than one or two expired items, find a new place to shop.
