Öko-Test finds pesticide residues in conventional vegetable broths

A recent study by Öko-Test involving 27 different vegetable broths and bouillons has revealed significant pesticide contamination in many conventional products. The investigation found that almost all broths containing vegetables from conventional farming contained at least one, and often multiple, pesticide residues.

Of the products tested, five received grades of ‘mangelhaft’ (unsatisfactory) or ‘ungenügend’ (insufficient), including the popular Knorr vegetable bouillon. Notably, some conventional products contained traces of Clothianidin, a pesticide that has not been authorized for use in the EU for several years. The testers expressed particular concern regarding pesticide mixes, as the interactions between different substances are not yet sufficiently researched.

In contrast, organic (Bio) products performed significantly better. All 17 organic products tested received a grade of at least ‘gut’ (good). The top performers, receiving a ‘sehr gut’ (very good) rating, were Knorr Bio Gemüse-Bouillon and Rewe Bio Gemüsebrühe mit 20 Prozent Gemüse. The Knorr organic version was noted for having the highest vegetable content at 32.5 percent.