Eco-test germs and pesticides in prepared salads

„Eco test“: Germs and pesticides in prepared salads

02/01/2015

A test of the magazine „Eco test“ Finished salads are often heavily contaminated with germs, molds or pesticides. Only one out of nine salads was recommended.

One of nine salads recommended
After a test of the magazine „Eco test“ Finished salads are often heavily contaminated with germs, molds or pesticides. As news agency AFP reports, reported „Eco test“ on Friday in advance of his February issue, that only one of nine examined salads was recommended. Accordingly, most of the packaged products had germ levels that cracked at least one of the respective guidelines of the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology.

Ten times as many molds as allowed
According to the report, the testers discovered a salad that even exceeded three guidelines: the total germ count, mold and yeast. And in a packaged salad mix, ten times as many mold fungi as permitted were found. The testers discovered traces of up to eight pesticides even though the salads are packed several times. According to the information, three samples of each of the nine varieties were taken for testing. So a total of 27 salads were examined.

Danger to health especially for children and pregnant women
According to the report, the insecticide cypermethrin, which is responsible for bee mortality, was detected in nine bags. Furthermore, the laboratory has found in seven packs traces of the fungus poison Iprodion. This is suspected of causing cancer. A total of 16 samples contained perchlorate or chlorate. According to the report, these two substances can temporarily block the absorption of iodine in the thyroid, which can be particularly problematic for children, pregnant women and people with hypothyroidism.

Testers advise to fresh salads
The testers recommended buying fresh salads rather than finished products. Those who still buy a packaged salad should wash it well again, at least before eating it. Should be waived on salads in the face of such reports by no means. The various salads contain many health-promoting ingredients such as vitamins and minerals. Green salad, for example, can stimulate digestion. If you are looking for ideas for delicious salad recipes, you will find them in cookbooks or on the internet.

Dangerous substances in finger paints
Out „Eco test“ (February issue) was previously reported on other potentially harmful products. Thus, the testers have also detected dangerous substances in finger paints. Accordingly, only three of the 16 tested colors are recommended. The other products were found to contain carcinogenic or other dangerous substances, such as nitrosamines. These were carcinogenic in animal experiments. And in one product an unacceptable amount of a questionable color component has been detected, which could be toxic on contact with the skin. (Ad)