Undesirable substances in salmon

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Jan 15, 2018 - Analytics

Undesirable substances in salmon

According to the Federal Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL), results from various nationwide investigation programs show that only relatively low residues of undesirable substances and elements could be detected in salmon.

However, listeria in unprocessed or cold-smoked fishery products such as smoked salmon are among the foods in the EU where exceeding the limit values for Listeria monocytogenes (germ counts > 100 colony-forming units per gram (CFU/g)) is most frequently found. Listeria monocytogenes can pose a health risk to humans.

Compared to salmonella and campylobacter infections, listeria infections occur less frequently, but due to the severity of the illness, they are of high importance. Sensitive consumer groups such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly are therefore advised to refrain from consuming unprocessed as well as hot or cold smoked fishery products and gravlax.

Between the years 2012 and 2016, salmon was examined for residues of pharmacologically active substances (hormones, antibiotics) and contaminants (lead, cadmium, pesticides) as part of the import monitoring plan (EÜP).

No residues in unauthorized amounts were detected in any of the 212 analyzed samples.

The inconspicuous results indicate that the consumption of salmon does not pose a health risk to the consumer.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we routinely conduct these investigations. We provide you with fast and reliable results.

Our customer advisors are happy to assist you with any questions.

Source: Federal Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) www.bvl.bund.de