The 2022 evaluation by Öko-Test revealed significant quality discrepancies in one of Germany's most popular frozen convenience foods: fish sticks. Out of 19 products tested, including both conventional and organic options, the results were sobering. Many established, high-profile brands failed to meet basic health and sustainability standards, primarily due to chemical contamination and transparency issues in the supply chain. Summary of Key Findings
Limiting consumption of breaded, pre-fried products for children, as they are most vulnerable to 3-MCPD exposure.
Several brands contained elevated levels of 3-MCPD, a contaminant that forms during the industrial processing of fats and oils (used in the breading). The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies 3-MCPD as "possibly carcinogenic to humans." Summary of Key Findings Limiting consumption of breaded,
While most brands used MSC-certified fish, the test found that "certified" did not always equate to "sustainable" in practice. Brands often lacked transparency regarding the exact catch methods and the specific fishing grounds used. Performance of Major Brands
The investigation focused on several critical pillars: ingredients, pollutants, and the sustainability of the fishing practices used. The most alarming discovery was the presence of harmful substances in nearly half of the products tested. Brands often lacked transparency regarding the exact catch
The 2022 Öko-Test serves as a reminder that brand recognition is not a guarantee of safety or quality. For consumers looking to minimize exposure to carcinogens and mineral oils, the test suggests:
. Both brands stood out for their lack of harmful contaminants and their superior commitment to sustainable fishing and supply chain transparency. Conclusion and Consumer Recommendations pre-fried products for children
This private label also failed the test, receiving a "Poor" rating due to mineral oil residues.