Germs and bacteria found in fried sausages

Germs in bratwursts

Stiftung Warentest: Germs and lactic acid bacteria found in fried sausages. Only five sausages finished with "good".

(24.06.2010) This is not very appetizing, in some sausages the Stiftung Warentest found germs. Only five out of nineteen tested sausages scored "good" in the test. For all others either germs were found or the taste left much to be desired.

It is barbecue time and there must not be missing a sausage. The offer is huge, which is why Stiftung Warentest has taken a closer look at 19 fried sausages. No bratwurst, however, could get the rating "very good". Only five out of 19 got the verdict "good". All others had deficiencies in hygiene or taste. In the test, three different analyzes were made. So first the quality of the meat in the laboratory was tested, the calories are measured, and checked whether the sausages contain germs, mold or yeasts. After these studies, the appearance, taste and smell were also evaluated. The sausages were also grilled.

How did the sausages in detail cut off??
The "Nürnberger Bratwürste" rated "good" as "good", the "Thüringer Rostbratwürste" from "Wolf" as well as the Bratwurst from "Bratmaxe" got the grade of "good" from "Rewe-Produkt" Ja "," Howe "and" Schlütter's Echte ". The following sausages were "mangehaft": organic roast sausages from "Chiemgauer", "good & inexpensive bratwurst", the bratwurst "fine" of the chain Rewe as well as the country friend rust roast sausages of "Penny Some bratwurst were found to have lactic acid bacteria and germs at the end of the best before date, arguing that the sausages were easily spoiled and could endanger the health of the consumer with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Luckily, they were not found, and many other sausages were also criticized for their taste, according to testers Knorpe Particles that greatly dampened the taste. Furthermore, a salty or sour taste was poorly rated in some sausages.

How can you test yourself if the sausage is not spoiled yet??
Consumers can hardly detect spoiled goods by smell or appearance. Flavors and spices sometimes obscure whether the product is still fresh. Bratwurst should not be eaten if the sausage smells sour and the liquid in the packaging is already cloudy. Consumers should also check whether the best before date has not been exceeded. As the test showed, the product should be stable for at least another week, as lactic acid bacteria can already form at the end of the shelf life. (Sb)

Also read:
Maximum levels of pesticides lowered in food
Stiftung Warentest: Organic not necessarily better

Image: Stephan Rohner.