News

News

News

updated on 11.04.2025

Yersinia enterolitica in salads and herbs – a study

Yersinia enterolitica is one of the most common pathogens transmitted through the food chain. For this reason, a study was conducted in Switzerland on pre-cut, washed salads and fresh herbs to investigate the presence and frequency of Yersinia enterolitica.

read more


updated on 10.04.2025

Preliminary Opinion SCCS on Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (DHHB)

In the statement SCCS/1678/25 of February 14, 2025, the topic of residues of di-n-hexyl phthalate (DnHexP) in the sunscreen filter DHHB is addressed by the EU, and the question is discussed as to what safe values for DnHexP can be defined.

read more


updated on 09.04.2025

Honey – not for toddlers

Infant botulism is a rare but dangerous condition caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Therefore, honey should not be given to children under 12 months for consumption.

read more


updated on 08.04.2025

Karlsruhe Cosmetics Day (KKT) – exciting lectures and exchange VO (EC) 1223/2009

On May 26 and 27, 2025, the KKT will take place again in Karlsruhe, organized as in previous years by the Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office Karlsruhe (CVUA KA).

read more


updated on 07.04.2025

New ALS guideline for the term "Superfood": Classification as a nutritional or health-related claim

The Working Group of Food Chemical Experts (ALS) made a new resolution concerning the designation "superfood" at its 123rd ALS meeting.

read more


updated on 04.04.2025

Recalls in the Safety Gate Portal Cosmetics - February 2025

The EU's Safety Gate rapid alert system provides information about potentially harmful cosmetics that do not comply with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.

read more


updated on 04.04.2025

FruitMuesliUnderTest – Focus on Sugar, Pesticides, and Mineral Oil Residues

In the current issue of Öko-Test (April 2025), a total of 40 different fruit mueslis were tested.

read more


updated on 02.04.2025

Protection against foodborne illnesses

The presence of Salmonella, Listeria, or Escherichia coli (E. coli) can lead to foodborne illnesses. The following groups are particularly at risk: young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. To reduce the risk of such infections, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) provides important recommendations for the safe handling of food.

read more


updated on 01.04.2025

Marketability tests cosmetics for trade

Most trading companies require suppliers to conduct listing examinations or provide certificates of marketability (VFB) before the first delivery of goods, based on the provisions of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009.

read more


updated on 28.03.2025

Stiftung Warentest: Nutritional Values of Frozen Pizzas Compared

In 2024, Stiftung Warentest conducted an analysis of the nutritional values of 21 frozen pizzas, including three vegan products. 

read more


updated on 28.03.2025

Microbiological Status of Vegan Cheese Alternatives

Vegan cheese alternatives are also produced through fermentation like cheese. Potentially pathogenic bacteria can multiply in the process. Therefore, as part of the Nationwide Control Plan (BÜp), vegan cheese alternatives based on nuts were examined for their microbiological contamination. 

read more


updated on 27.03.2025

New Substances In ECHA Liste - Cosmetics

The ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) has recently published an updated list of substances or substance classes where regulatory action may be needed. 

read more


updated on 26.03.2025

Food Infections New BfR Video Highlights Kitchen Hygiene Deficiencies

Foods can often be contaminated with pathogenic germs such as Campylobacter or Salmonella, which can cause foodborne infections in humans.

read more


updated on 25.03.2025

Law No. 2025-188 France – Ban on the use of PFAS in cosmetics

The national law No. 20225-188 from February 27, 2025, redefines the use of PFAS in cosmetics in France. The active addition of PFAS as well as the sale of cosmetics to which these PFAS have been added is prohibited in France from January 1, 2026.

read more


updated on 24.03.2025

Food Association Germany: Guideline for Listeria Prevention

At the end of 2023, the German Food Association published the "Guideline for Good Practice - Recommendations for Prevention Measures against Listeria monocytogenes in Certain Areas of Food Production." 

read more


updated on 21.03.2025

Emmentaler – a protected designation of origin?

The EU Commission decided in January 2025 that "Emmental" is not a protected designation of origin (PDO), but a general designation for a type of cheese. 

read more


updated on 20.03.2025

Microbiological examination of herbal medicinal products – Examination according to Ph.Eur.

The microbiological quality of herbal medicinal products is a critical factor for product safety. The European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) specifies specific limits and methods for microbiological testing in chapter 5.1.8. 

read more


updated on 19.03.2025

Buckwheat – a new allergen?

The pseudocereal buckwheat is currently enjoying great popularity. Nevertheless, one should be cautious because buckwheat can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

read more


updated on 18.03.2025

Reclassification Hexamethylindanopyran (Galaxolide) Cosmetics

In December 2024, the competent French authority submitted a new CLH dossier regarding the harmonized classification and labeling of Galaxolide.

read more


updated on 17.03.2025

OrganicFoodLabelingAccordingToRegulation(EU)2018/848

Consumers are increasingly turning to organic foods. As demand rises, so does supply. What do you as a manufacturer need to consider when labeling?

read more


updated on 14.03.2025

Furan, nitrate and cadmium detected in carrot juices for babies

The current issue of Öko-Test reports that elevated levels of furan, nitrate, and cadmium have been found in carrot juices for babies and toddlers.

read more


updated on 13.03.2025

UK - further restrictions for Methyl Salicylate in cosmetics

In January 2025, the United Kingdom notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) about a draft law aimed at further restricting the use of methyl salicylate in cosmetic products. 

 

read more


updated on 12.03.2025

Ökotest Protein Bars - High Protein, Additives, Concerning Residues?

The market for protein bars is booming, promising "High Protein, Low Sugar". However, the test in the current issue of Ökotest of 20 products reveals: In addition to a high protein content, many bars also contain numerous additives—and some even have worrying residues.

read more


updated on 11.03.2025

FDA warning letter due to inadequate testing of non-sterile drugs

In September of last year, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted inspections at a manufacturer of non-sterile pharmaceuticals and identified significant deficiencies related to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

 

read more


updated on 10.03.2025

New ALS Resolution on "Free From" Labeling of Allergens

The Working Group of Food Chemistry Experts (ALS) has made a new decision regarding the labeling "free from" for allergens. Accordingly, food products may only be labeled as "free from (allergen x)" if the relevant allergen is actually undetectable. However, if the allergen is detectable, such labeling is considered misleading according to Article 7(1) of the Food Information Regulation (FIR).

read more


updated on 09.03.2025

Lead residues in cosmetic products

The consumer magazine ÖKO-TEST regularly detects elevated lead levels in various cosmetic products such as compact powders and blushes.

read more


updated on 07.03.2025

Current legislative changes regarding pesticide residues in plant and animal foods

The European Union reduced the maximum residue levels of the insecticide Acetamiprid for 38 plant and animal products with Regulation (EU) 2025/158.

read more


updated on 05.03.2025

Berliners in Test – Pesticides and Mineral Oil Residues Detected

The carnival season is associated with the consumption of Berliners (also called Krapfen or Pfannkuchen). Just in time for the peak season, Öko-Test has taken a closer look at eleven different Berliners. In addition to the ingredients, the investigation focused primarily on possible contaminants such as pesticides, mineral oil residues (MOSH/MOAH), and 3-MCPD fatty acid esters. None of the tested products scored better than "satisfactory".

read more


updated on 04.03.2025

ProductRecallCreamDueToMicrobialContamination

Cosmetic products must be safe for health and therefore also microbiologically harmless, as required by the Cosmetic Regulation EC No. 1223/2009.

read more


updated on 28.02.2025

Regulation (EC) No 853/2004: Adjustment of the identification mark

On 19.04.24, Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/1141 was published in the Official Journal of the EU, introducing numerous amendments to Annexes II and III of the Hygiene Regulation (EC) No. 853/2004.

The new regulations stipulate, among other things, that the abbreviation previously used in the identification mark "EG" (for European Community) must be replaced by the abbreviation "EU" (for European Union) by no later than 31.12.2028.

read more


updated on 26.02.2025

BfRwarnsofadversehealtheffectsduetoglycerininSlush-Icedrinks

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has assessed the health impact of glycerin levels in slush ice drinks. Glycerin, also known as food additive E 422, is used in various food products, including flavored beverages.

read more


updated on 24.02.2025

Current food alert: Undeclared allergen in raisins

An ongoing food warning notifies consumers that sulfur dioxide was detected in raisins without it being indicated on the packaging. Therefore, the product is being recalled.

read more


updated on 21.02.2025

Update of DGHM Recommendations: Microbiological Guidelines and Warning Values for Food

The German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology e.V. (DGHM) has updated its microbiological guideline and warning values for food. The BAV Institute has incorporated the innovations into its testing plans and points out the change.

read more


updated on 20.02.2025

Fragrance Substances Cosmetics – Regulation (EU) No. 2023/1545

The declaration of allergenic fragrances for cosmetics has been newly regulated with EU Regulation No. 2023/1545, and the labeling requirement has been significantly expanded. 

read more


updated on 19.02.2025

Dietarysupplements:Notificationrequired

The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) points out that dietary supplements must be registered with the BVL before they are sold. These products are considered food and are subject to the corresponding European and German regulations.

read more


updated on 18.02.2025

SAFETY BITS – Online Seminars for Safety Assessors

On February 12, 2025, the next SAFETY BITS will take place, where current topics from the field of safety assessment according to Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 will be discussed.

read more


updated on 17.02.2025

Change in marketing standards for fresh fruits and vegetables, bananas, and dried products

As of January 1, 2025, new regulations for the marketing standards in the areas of fresh fruit and vegetables, bananas, and dried products have come into force.

read more


updated on 15.02.2025

New EU Regulation on Epidemiological-Molecular Analysis Data - Whole Genome Investigations of Foodborne Disease Outbreaks

The European Commission issued the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/179 on 31/01/2025 to facilitate the investigation of foodborne disease outbreaks caused by strains of Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Campylobacter jejuni, and Campylobacter coli, and to identify the sources of these outbreaks at an early stage. 

read more


updated on 14.02.2025

Recalls in the Safety Gate Portal Cosmetics - January 2025

The EU's rapid alert system Safety Gate provides information on potentially harmful cosmetics that do not comply with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.

read more


updated on 13.02.2025

New accredited rapid tests for pseudomonads and coagulase-positive staphylococci in food

Faster and more reliable microbiological testing. We now offer accredited rapid tests for Pseudomonas and Coagulase positive Staphylococci in food.

read more


updated on 13.02.2025

New accredited rapid methods for the detection of pseudomonads and coagulase-positive staphylococci in food

Faster and reliable microbiological analyses. From now on, we offer accredited rapid methods for the detection of Pseudomonads and coagulase-positive Staphylococci in food.

read more


updated on 13.02.2025

Rye breads in the test

In the current Ökotest edition of February 2025, the test results of 20 whole grain rye breads from (organic) supermarkets, drugstores, and discounters are presented.

read more


updated on 12.02.2025

EU approval of UV-treated mealworm powder as a food ingredient

With Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/89, the European Commission has officially approved the use of UV-treated mealworm powder (Tenebrio molitor) as a novel food. The approval comes into effect on February 10, 2025 and allows the use of the powder in a variety of foods. With the approval of the UV-treated mealworm powder, specific requirements arise for food manufacturers.

read more


updated on 12.02.2025

NewBorderlineHandbook-BorderlineAssessment

Borderline products are defined as products that, due to their intended use, may fall under more than one area of law. To provide assistance in demarcation questions, the Working Group on Cosmetic Products under the chairmanship of the European Commission published a new version of the Borderline Manual in November 2024.

read more


updated on 11.02.2025

Recall of raw milk cheese – Detection of STEC

A manufacturer recalls its raclette cheese due to a positive detection of STEC in several batches. 

read more



updated on 07.02.2025

Chemical Testing Cosmetics BAV Institute

The requirements for cosmetics regarding chemical residues are constantly increasing due to the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, as well as the specifications of chemicals legislation and REACH.

read more


updated on 05.02.2025

Pesticides in grapes

Fruits such as grapes from non-EU countries are often contaminated with pesticides. Examinations of 64 grapes revealed, in some cases, high levels of pesticide contamination.

read more


updated on 04.02.2025

Accredited rapid method for determining yeasts & molds in cosmetics

For some time now, we have been offering the quantitative determination of yeasts and molds in cosmetics within just 3 days. The standard processing time according to ISO 16212 is 5 days, so you save a full 2 days.

read more


updated on 03.02.2025

Regulation (EU) 2023/915: Maximum Levels for Nickel

In July 2024, Regulation (EU) 2024/1987 amending Regulation (EU) 2023/915 regarding maximum levels for nickel in certain foodstuffs was published. The maximum levels for nickel in the specified foodstuffs will apply from 1 July 2025.

read more


updated on 30.01.2025

DGK Expert Panel Cosmetics & Microbiology

The German Society for Cosmetic (DGK e.V.) is organizing an expert panel (online) on February 18th on the topic Cosmetics & Microbiology – Basic knowledge on microbiological testing of cosmetics.

read more


updated on 30.01.2025

New Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 on Listeria monocytogenes – What changes for food businesses?

The Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 of November 20, 2024, amends Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005 as regards the food safety criterion for Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods. 

read more


updated on 29.01.2025

CVUA Sigmaringen - Analysis of T-2 and HT-2 Toxins

The Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office (CVUA) Sigmaringen has been examining food samples for the presence of T-2 and HT-2 toxins for several years. From 2016 to mid-2024, almost 3,900 samples were examined. 

read more


updated on 27.01.2025

Di-n-hexyl phthalate (DnHexP) – Contamination in sunscreens

Due to the detection of mono-n-hexyl phthalate (MnHexP) in children's urine, which is formed as a metabolite from DnHexP, sunscreens came into the focus of public attention.

read more


updated on 27.01.2025

DiscountstorebannedfromsellingDubaichocolate

A discount store is no longer allowed to sell its Dubai chocolate for the time being, as the Cologne Regional Court has issued a temporary injunction. 

read more


updated on 24.01.2025

Guidelines for Informing the Public about Health-Hazardous Foods

The Federal States Working Group on Consumer Protection (LAV) has updated its guidelines concerning the public information on health hazardous food products.

read more


updated on 24.01.2025

RecallsCosmeticsDueToMicrobiologicalContamination

Again and again, contamination of cosmetics and non-compliance with ISO 17516 lead to recalls. Recalls mainly affect water-based products, but powders, for example, can also be affected.

read more


updated on 22.01.2025

BVLpresentsstudyresults2023:Againlownumberofpesticideresiduesinfood

The "National Report on Pesticide Residues in Food 2023" published by the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) shows that food in Germany rarely contains pesticide residues above the permitted maximum levels. 

read more


updated on 21.01.2025

Fluoride – European Food Safety Authority publishes draft risk assessment

The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) published a draft on risk assessment intake of fluoride in December 2024. 

read more


updated on 20.01.2025

Vitamin D supplements in test

In the current Ökotest issue of January 2025 [1], the test results of 23 Vitamin D3 supplements are discussed, and the advantages and disadvantages of vitamin D supplements are weighed. 

read more


updated on 17.01.2025

High acrylamide levels in dried fruit

The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) pointed out in a press release in December 2024 the high levels of acrylamide in dried stone fruits. Acrylamide has been shown to be carcinogenic and mutagenic in animal studies

read more


updated on 16.01.2025

DetergentsCleanersAndCleaningAgents: UFICodeCanSaveLives

Since January 2025, the UFI is also mandatory for products within the EEA that were marketed before 2021.

read more


updated on 15.01.2025

Outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Brandenburg

On January 10, 2025, a case of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) was confirmed in water buffalo in the district of Märkisch-Oderland in Brandenburg. It is the first outbreak in Germany in more than 35 years. This results in Germany losing its FMD-free status without vaccination, which could affect confidence in German animal products in international markets.

read more


updated on 14.01.2025

Recalls in the Safety Gate Portal Cosmetics - December 2024

In the month of December, a total of 209 products were classified as "serious risk."

read more


updated on 13.01.2025

SmokedSalmonunderScrutinybyStiftungWarentest

Stiftung Warentest tested 13 smoked salmon products from supermarkets and discount stores.

read more


updated on 10.01.2025

Vegan cheese tested: How good are the alternatives from Edeka, Rewe & Co.?

A recent test by OekoTest examines the quality of twelve types of vegan cheese slices. In addition to ingredients, taste, smell, appearance, and consistency were also scrutinized. The conclusion is sobering

read more


updated on 08.01.2025

Dangerous Hydrogen Cyanide in Flaxseeds: More Issues Detected

A recent test of 19 crushed flaxseeds from organic farming shows alarming results: Only one product is recommended. 

read more


updated on 06.01.2025

UFI code for detergents and cleaning products: life-saving assignment mandatory from 2025

From January 1, 2025, the obligation to use the UFI code (Unique Formula Identifier) applies to all household products classified as hazardous in the European Economic Area (EEA), including products that were already on the market before 2021.

read more


updated on 03.01.2025

Maximum levels for the mycotoxins T-2 toxin and HT-2 toxin in Regulation (EU) 2023/915

In July 2024, Regulation (EU) 2024/1038 amending Regulation (EU) 2023/915 (EU Contaminants Maximum Levels Regulation) concerning the maximum levels for the toxins T-2 and HT-2 in food came into force.

read more


updated on 02.01.2025

Extended declaration of fragrance ingredients in cosmetics according to Regulation (EU) 2023/1545

With the regulation VO (EU) 2023/1545, the list of substances to be declared was significantly expanded to over 80 substances or natural extracts.

read more


updated on 01.01.2025

Eco-Test January 2025: Smoked Tofu in Test

ÖKO-TEST examined a total of 19 smoked tofu products in the January 2025 issue, 18 of which were organically grown. 

read more


updated on 31.12.2024

Öko-Test examines hand creams – December 2024 issue

In the current issue of the magazine Öko-Test, a total of 50 hand creams were examined for possible residues and contaminants.

read more


updated on 30.12.2024

Pesticides and Perchlorate in Christmas Spices

The Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office (CVUA) Stuttgart examined a total of 40 different Christmas spices, including 7 samples from organic farming, for pesticide residues and perchlorate from 2022 to 2024. 

read more


updated on 27.12.2024

Listeria in smoked salmon: risk for sensitive consumer groups

For the official zoonosis monitoring 2023, cold-smoked, sliced salmon from retail was tested for the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. Vulnerable consumer groups still at risk.

read more


updated on 26.12.2024

Preservative efficacy tests (PETs) with microorganisms from the production environment

To prove the microbiological stability of cosmetics, preservative efficacy tests are usually carried out according to ISO 11930.

read more


updated on 25.12.2024

EFSA and ECDC publish Zoonoses Report 2023

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) presented the EU One Health Zoonoses Report 2023 on December 11, 2023. 

read more


updated on 24.12.2024

InnovationsBanProceduresForPFAS

PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are currently widely used in many products due to their properties, but are a major environmental problem due to their persistence. A ban is therefore being sought at the European level.

read more


updated on 23.12.2024

How contaminated are algae?

In the 2023 monitoring, various algae were examined for heavy metals and elements by the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) in order to improve the data situation on the general contamination of dried seaweed.

read more



updated on 19.12.2024

SuccessfulSeminarwithConceptHeidelberg–MicrobiologicalQualityManagement

On December 3rd and 4th, an exciting seminar titled “Microbiological Quality Management for Cosmetics and Non-Sterile Pharmaceuticals” took place in the premises of our institute. 

read more


updated on 18.12.2024

MulledWineInFocusOfTheNewLabelingRequirement

Since December 8, 2023, mulled wines with a later production date must have a full listing of ingredients and nutritional values. In November 2024, the VZB examined 84 mulled wines and fruit mulled wines. The result is sobering.

read more


updated on 17.12.2024

Microbiological quality of cosmetic products – ISO 17516

Cosmetic products must be microbiologically safe, this is a central requirement of Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. 

read more


updated on 16.12.2024

Vegan Cheese Substitutes: A Good Alternative?!

Vegan cheese alternatives are becoming increasingly popular. However, during their production, bacteria can thrive in the nuts used, which are potentially harmful to health. 

read more


updated on 13.12.2024

Classification of nettles in cheese – ALTS decision

In June 2024, the Working Group of Experts for Food Hygiene and Food of Animal Origin (ALTS) held its 93rd working meeting.

read more


updated on 12.12.2024

Preliminary SCCS Opinions for Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and Benzophenone-1

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Commission has published two preliminary opinions on the UV filters Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and Benzophenone-1.

read more


updated on 10.12.2024

Recalls in the Safety Gate Portal Cosmetics - November 2024

The EU's rapid alert system, Safety Gate, provides information about potentially harmful cosmetics that do not comply with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009.

read more


updated on 09.12.2024

Food safety: Coumarin in cinnamon stars – hardly any exceedances of the maximum level

The Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety (LGL) examined a total of 132 samples of cinnamon stars in the years 2022, 2023, and 2024 (as of week 47).

read more


updated on 06.12.2024

Foodborne Disease Outbreaks 2023: Main Causes and Causal Foods

In 2023, Salmonella spp. were the most common cause of foodborne disease outbreaks with high evidence in Germany. A remarkable insight from the report is that in 2023 no combination of pathogen and causal food was reported multiple times. 

read more


updated on 05.12.2024

Investigation of preservatives in technical products

Various preservatives (e.g. thiazolinones) are still used to stabilize technical products (e.g. paints and coatings).

read more


updated on 04.12.2024

Foodborne Zoonoses: New Insights and Recommendations on Campylobacter and STEC

The Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit (BVL) has highlighted the results of the current Zoonoses Monitoring 2023 in a press release (see Circular L-780-2024 of October 9, 2024). Particular attention was drawn to the risks posed by "pork mince for raw consumption," especially for sensitive consumer groups.

read more


updated on 03.12.2024

BfR Commission for Tattooing Agents - Protocol 3rd Meeting

The BfR Commission for Tattooing Agents advises the BfR regarding questions on the safety of tattooing agents and permanent make-up products (e.g., the safety of dyes used).

read more


updated on 03.12.2024

Hype Around "Dubai Chocolate" – What's Behind It?

In Germany, "Dubai chocolate" is currently being hyped. These specially filled chocolate bars with ingredients such as pistachios, kadaifi ("angel hair"), and tahini (sesame paste) are known for their luxurious appearance. However, investigations by the CVUA Stuttgart, in collaboration with the CVUAs Freiburg and Sigmaringen, reveal significant deficiencies in imported products

read more


updated on 02.12.2024

Stiftung Warentest examines Christmas cookies for acrylamide

The Stiftung Warentest has tested 49 different Christmas pastries for acrylamide.

read more


updated on 01.12.2024

Pesticides in Table Grapes

The Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office Stuttgart (CVUA) points out pesticide residues in table grapes. A recent study examining 64 table grapes from various countries of origin shows that conventionally grown table grapes often contain residues of multiple pesticides.

read more


updated on 29.11.2024

Seed Monitoring 2024: Low GMO Levels Detected in Corn

In the analysis year 2024 (01.10.2023 – 30.09.2024), the official testing facilities of the federal states examined a total of 783 seed samples from 13 crops for genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

read more


updated on 28.11.2024

Extended Fragrance Declaration Cosmetics – Regulation (EU) No. 2023/1545

With the adoption of Regulation (EU) No. 2023/1545 from July 2023, the number of fragrance allergens that must be declared for cosmetics is significantly increased. To the currently mandatory 24 fragrance allergens (in addition to four prohibited substances), 56 more are added.

read more



updated on 26.11.2024

Microbiological Stability – Preservative Efficacy Testing – ISO 11930

Microbiological stability is essential for the safety of cosmetics and proof of this is part of the safety report for cosmetics according to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. 

read more


updated on 25.11.2024

BVL: Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC/VTEC) and Salmonella in raw ground meat

The Federal Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety published the press release "Potentially harmful germs in raw ground meat" on November 14, 2024.

read more


updated on 25.11.2024

New legislative requirements for Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods

On 11/20/24, the new Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. It contains new requirements for microbiological criteria for Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods that may favor the growth of these bacteria.

read more