News
06.07.2022 - Foods
Quality and Labeling of Milk
The Food and Veterinary Institute Oldenburg examined a total of 152 samples of cow's milk in pre-packages in 2021.
The following test parameters were examined:
- Fat content
- Density and freezing point
- Pesticides (in organic milk)
- Labeling
Fat content:
Altogether, five samples were notable for having a low-fat content.
Density and freezing point
The parameters of density and freezing point can prove the dilution of milk. The test found no evidence that a milk sample had been diluted with water.
Pesticides
No pesticide residues were detected in the organic milk products.
Labeling
One sample of whole milk was advertised with both "3.8% fat" and "at least 3.8% fat." The fat content was 3.8%, so both statements were factually correct. However, since they refer to different types of milk, they were deemed contradictory and thus misleading. One sample lacked the indication "traditionally produced." This means fresh milk, which has been "only" pasteurized for preservation and therefore has a shorter shelf-life.
Two samples violated EU regulations on nutrition and health claims, as they made unauthorized claims regarding well-being. Two samples of organic milk made nutritional claims about omega-3 fatty acids that did not comply with legal requirements.
Deficiencies in mandatory labeling were found in only two of the 152 samples. In one case, the mandatory labeling elements were partially or fully obscured. In another case, the nutritional labeling was not easily legible.
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct labeling inspections. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
Our customer consultants are happy to assist you with any questions.
Sources:
· https://www.laves.niedersachsen.de/startseite/lebensmittel/lebensmittelgruppen/milch_milcherzeugnisse_kase/untersuchung-von-milch-in-fertigpackungen-164607.html
· https://www.bav-institut.de/de/beratungen/kennzeichnungspruefungen