Aug 23, 2026 - Foods
Plant-based fish alternatives microbiologically unremarkable
Vegan and vegetarian alternatives to fish and seafood are becoming increasingly important. The CVUA Karlsruhe carried out microbiological testing on a total of 31 such products between January 2025 and May 2026. The results are encouraging: pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella were not detected in any of the samples tested.
Various plant-based fish and seafood alternatives were examined, including smoked salmon, tuna and fish-stick analogues. As many products are ready-to-eat or only briefly heated, their microbiological quality is particularly relevant.
In none of the samples tested were Listeria monocytogenes or Salmonella detected; Enterobacteriaceae and lactic acid bacteria were also unremarkable, while presumptive Bacillus cereus levels, where detectable, were below levels relevant to health.
Listeria monocytogenes remains particularly significant because of its ability to grow at refrigeration temperatures. In view of the stricter EU requirements coming into force in July 2026, the findings should therefore be assessed positively. For Bacillus cereus there was no indication of a health risk. Continuous refrigeration nevertheless remains important.
Conclusion: The vegan and vegetarian fish substitute products tested showed an overall unremarkable microbiological profile. No dangerous pathogens were detected, and hygiene and spoilage indicators also showed no notable findings.
At our BAV Institut we regularly perform microbiological testing for vegan and vegetarian products. We provide fast and reliable results and are happy to advise you on all matters related to product safety. If you have any questions, our customer advisors will be happy to assist you.
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