Enjoy Cocktails Without Worry – Statement on a Recent BVL Article

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Jun 19, 2024 - Foods

Enjoy Cocktails Without Worry – Statement on a Recent BVL Article

The BVL has published an article referring to the results of official investigations of ice cubes. Some statements in this article are not scientifically proven. Therefore, we from the BAV Institute would like to comment on these points.

In the first paragraph of the article, the BVL states:

“In 47 out of 244 samples taken from the ice cube machines, the total germ count at 36 degrees Celsius exceeded the limit of 100 colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/ml). Such a value is an indication of hygiene deficiencies and may be associated with the presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria.”

Since ice cubes as such do not fall under the Drinking Water Ordinance, the limit of 100 CFU/ml does not apply here. Furthermore, a prescribed investigation procedure must be applied to water tests; there is no such investigation procedure for ice cubes. Although an elevated total germ count may indicate hygiene deficiencies, a direct correlation with the presence of pathogenic bacteria is scientifically untenable. Subsequently, individual microorganisms are discussed. For example, coliform germs, enterococci, and E. coli were detected in individual cases. A statement about pathogenic potential is not possible without specifying germ counts.

In the article, the BVL also addresses the importance of good personal and operational hygiene. It is also pointed out that the ice’s dwelling time in ice machines should be as short as possible. We agree with these points.

Source: www.bvl.bund.de