Store-bought vegetable bouillon powders and granules frequently contain pesticide residues and high levels of sodium, according to test results published by the German consumer magazine Öko-Test in its October 2026 issue. Out of 27 conventional and organic vegetable broths tested by laboratory analysts, five conventional products received failing grades of “poor” or “unsatisfactory” due to multiple chemical residues and excessive salt content.
Pesticide Residues Found in Conventional Broths
Laboratory testing commissioned by Öko-Test detected at least one pesticide in nearly all conventional vegetable broths, with several products containing multiple residues simultaneously. Testers identified combinations of up to four different pesticide compounds in a single container. According to the magazine, these chemical cocktails are particularly concerning because potential synergistic interactions between multiple residues remain insufficiently researched.
Among the specific active ingredients identified in the laboratory analysis, Öko-Test classified several as especially problematic for human health. Difenoconazol is categorized as a suspected carcinogen, while clothianidin and pyraclostrobin are classified as suspected reproductive toxins. Investigators noted that these residues likely entered the products via raw agricultural ingredients used in conventional farming.
Salt Content and Additives Exceed Thresholds
Beyond pesticide contamination, the testing revealed issues with nutritional composition and food additives in lower-scoring items. Several products exceeded the strict sodium limits established by Öko-Test, which set a threshold of 0.90 grams of salt per 100 milliliters of prepared broth. Furthermore, testers penalized brands that relied heavily on added flavorings and flavor enhancers. The magazine observed a clear trend among conventional items: products containing very low actual vegetable content typically featured much higher concentrations of salt and artificial aromas.
Organic Alternatives Earn Top Ratings
The testing demonstrated a stark divide between conventional and organic offerings. All 17 products carrying an organic certification achieved a rating of “good” or higher. Two specific organic items earned the highest overall rating of “very good”: Knorr Bio GemüseBouillon, priced at 34 cents per liter of prepared broth, and Rewe Bio Gemüsebrühe mit 20 % Gemüse, priced at 20 cents per liter.
Within the conventional category, results varied more widely. Alongside the five failing products, testers awarded two conventional broths a “good” rating and three an “satisfactory” rating.
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