News
30.01.2020 - Foods
Hummus in Eco Test: critical - glyphosate and cadmium, partially noticeable sensory
In the January 2020 issue of Öko-Test, 18 hummus products, including 7 organic products, were tested. The following test parameters were examined:
- Heavy metals cadmium and nickel
Since sesame can be contaminated with cadmium and legumes like chickpeas can be contaminated with nickel, these heavy metals were tested. In three hummus products, cadmium levels were determined that exhausted more than 50% of the weekly tolerable intake (TWI) of EFSA, based on a daily portion of 100g and a body weight of 60 kg. Since cadmium is also absorbed from other foods, this was evaluated strictly by Ökotest.
- Pesticides, including glyphosate
Glyphosate is suspected of being carcinogenic. Glyphosate was detected in six of the eleven conventional products at levels below the legal limits. No glyphosate was found in any of the organic products.
- Mineral oil components
Aromatic mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOAH), which are also suspected of being carcinogenic, were not detected at all. "Increased" levels of MOSH (aliphatic mineral oil hydrocarbons), i.e., 1-2 mg/kg MOSH/MOSH analogues with chain lengths C17-C35, were determined in three products.
- Sensory properties
Three products were noticeable for their strong to very strong acetic acid taste. Another hummus smelled and tasted slightly musty and also had a slightly bitter taste.
Further deductions were made
- for portions that were too small,
- in one packaging, PVC/PVDC/chlorinated compounds were detected.
More detailed information about the test series can be found in the Öko-Test magazine No. 01/2020.
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for cadmium, nickel, and pesticides. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are very happy to assist you with any questions.
Source: Öko-Test No. 01/2020 - www.oekotest.de