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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
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.
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".
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
updated on 07.02.2025
AssociationforConsumerInformation: NutMueslisTested
The Austrian partner organization, Verein für Konsumenteninformation (VKI), of Stiftung Warentest has analyzed 15 classic nut mueslis and 5 crunchy nut mueslis.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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."
updated on 13.01.2025
SmokedSalmonunderScrutinybyStiftungWarentest
Stiftung Warentest tested 13 smoked salmon products from supermarkets and discount stores.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
updated on 20.12.2024
Amendment of the guidelines for meat and meat products
In December 2024, the changes to the guidelines for meat and meat products were published.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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.
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).
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
updated on 02.12.2024
Stiftung Warentest examines Christmas cookies for acrylamide
The Stiftung Warentest has tested 49 different Christmas pastries for acrylamide.
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.
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).
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.
updated on 27.11.2024
Foodborne Disease Outbreaks in Germany 2023: New Report by the Robert Koch Institute and BVL
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in collaboration with the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) has released the joint national report on foodborne disease outbreaks in Germany for the year 2023. These outbreaks also represent a significant public health issue in Germany as they cause a large number of illnesses annually.
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.
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.
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.