Rostock/Neubrandenburg (dpa/mv) - The microbiological examination of ice cream samples from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania revealed hygienic deficiencies in around a fifth of the samples. By the end of July, 231 ice cream samples had been microbiologically examined nationwide. The majority, around 83 percent, came from soft ice cream machines, said the Mecklenburg-Western Pomeranian State Office for Agriculture, Food Safety and Fisheries on Wednesday.
The result is unsatisfactory, according to State Office Director Stephan Goltermann. "19 percent of the ice cream samples, i.e. 44, of which 42 were soft ice cream, and thus a proportion that has remained roughly the same for years, had to be objected to due to hygienic deficiencies." Microbiological weak points are in particular the addition of flavor components such as fruits and nuts. After the pasteurization of the ice cream ingredients, the risks are dirty work surfaces or insufficient personal hygiene.
According to the information, the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes was only detected in one ice sample, but below a pathogenic concentration. Fortunately, salmonella were not found in any of the samples. The authority warned that the milk content in particular offers a good breeding ground for the multiplication of germs. Expert cleaning and maintenance of ice cream vending machines is also a prerequisite for compliance with the strict microbiological requirements and smooth ice cream enjoyment.
