News
Dec 19, 2025 - Foods
Salmonella in Organic Pepper: Spice Recall – Food Monitoring Maintains Zero Tolerance
A recent detection of salmonella in organic pepper has prompted a spice trader to preemptively recall several batches. The recall of spices was published as part of the official food monitoring to protect consumers from health risks. Salmonella in food can cause severe gastrointestinal diseases and pose an increased risk, particularly for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
In the European Union, a strictly enforced zero-tolerance policy against salmonella remains in place. This is professionally justified as even small amounts of germs can be sufficient to trigger a foodborne infection. In the case of a positive finding, authorities consistently respond with measures such as product recalls, distribution halts, and extended control requirements for affected companies.
The public sector also regularly intensifies the official inspections of herbs and spices, especially for imports from noticeable countries of origin. Imports from Brazil are currently subject to increased inspection frequencies as specified in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/2246. The aim of this regulation is to detect risks along the food chain early and strengthen consumer protection.
Despite extensive microbiological examinations, there can be no absolute certainty. Causes include, among others, so-called salmonella nests and batch inhomogeneities, where contaminations occur sporadically. On the positive side, the salmonella detection rates in spices and herbs have significantly reduced compared to previous decades – a result of improved hygiene concepts, modern analytics, and targeted monitoring programs.
Our recommendation to manufacturers, importers, and traders is therefore: regularly test herbs and spices for salmonella. Crucial is a statistically sound sampling to obtain reliable results. Additionally, molecular biological rapid methods offer a valid instrument to quickly respond in case of an emergency and ensure food safety.
As an accredited inspection laboratory for food analytics, we support companies with salmonella analyses, microbiological examinations, and professional consultations. Contact us – our customer advisors are happy to assist you.
Sources:
www.bav-institut.de
www.lebensmittelwarnung.de
Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/2246 of the Commission of December 15, 2021