Food News

The German consumer magazine ÖKO-TEST tested 18 gingerbread wafers during the Christmas season.

Most of the products received a rating of ‘good’ or ‘very good’. There were only a few complaints.

Typical of the magazine's approach was that gingerbread containing added flavourings in addition to the typical spices of cinnamon, cloves and cardamom was downgraded. The reason given was that, according to the results of animal experiments, flavourings tempt people to consume excessive amounts, which can ultimately lead to weight gain. Question: Who loses weight during the Christmas season? In addition, the price increases we are seeing on the market this year are likely to curb consumption.

One product was rated ‘unsatisfactory’ because the commissioned laboratory detected aromatic mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOAH). Mycotoxin levels were detected in a branded organic gingerbread. The "Öko-testers" can at least fall back on eight gingerbread products that they rated as good or very good.

The gingerbread currently on sale in shops and tested by ÖKOTEST was usually baked in the summer. It therefore makes little sense to subject these products to analytical testing shortly before Christmas. However, it does make sense to test the raw materials before processing!

YOUR PLUS: The AGROLAB GROUP laboratories check the quality of nuts, cocoa, chocolate, dried fruit, spices and flour throughout the year. Particular attention should be paid to the above-mentioned contaminants: MOSH/MOAH, mycotoxins and pesticide residues.

Author: Dr Frank Mörsberger, AGROLAB GROUP