Profeco identifies irregularities in processed broths and seasonings

Mexico’s Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) conducted a quality study on 36 processed broth and seasoning products, including chicken, shrimp, beef, and vegetable varieties. The National Consumer Protection Laboratory performed 2,902 tests to evaluate nutritional content, sodium levels, net weight accuracy, and compliance with labeling standards.

Key findings revealed several irregularities. Knorr’s beef-flavored vegetable powder broth failed to meet its declared net weight, containing 188.7 grams instead of the stated 200 grams. The brand Origen Sano failed to include the country of origin on its beef-flavored vegetable seasoning. Additionally, products from the brand Calnort, including beef powder, dehydrated fish broth, vegetable cubes, and chicken powder, lacked nutritional declarations for prepared products and instructions for use.

Regarding sodium content, several brands, including Knorr and Great Value, carried excessive sodium warning seals. Great Value’s chicken powder broth contained 788 milligrams of sodium per 250 milliliters, while Knorr’s 100-gram presentation reported 598 milligrams. In contrast, Knorr Cero Sal, which claims no added salt, reported only 72 milligrams of sodium per 250 milliliters and did not require warning seals.