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Dec 8, 2025 - Foods

Noroviruses in Frozen Berries: Experts Advise Caution

Current consumer protection notices show: Frozen berries can still pose a risk of noroviruses or hepatitis A viruses. These viruses survive the freezing process and can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses when consumed raw. Particularly affected are frozen raspberries and berry mixes used in smoothies, desserts, or mueslis. Since contamination is not detectable, it is recommended to adequately heat frozen berries before consumption.

Studies also show that dried berries have only low acrylamide levels and are thus considered chemically inconspicuous. Therefore, berry products can be microbiologically problematic but chemically harmless – a hint at the importance of a differentiated risk assessment.

Potential viruses can be safely inactivated by briefly boiling the product. For communal catering and gastronomy, adhering to strict hygiene standards remains essential to avoid cross-contamination.

Our laboratory and partner laboratories are happy to examine your berry products microbiologically and chemically – for maximum safety and transparency along the entire supply chain.

Sources:

• www.fr.de/verbraucher.de
• www.bvl.bund.de