Öko-Test Releases New Product Evaluations, Highlighting Health and Sustainability Concerns
Frankfurt/Main (dpa/tmn) - The latest evaluations from the independent consumer research magazine Öko-Test have unveiled significant findings across multiple product categories, including children's juices, black pepper, eye creams, and protein bars. Consumers are encouraged to reconsider their choices based on these comprehensive analyses.
According to Öko-Test’s March 2025 issue, 23 different types of juices, particularly those aimed at infants and toddlers, were assessed. The results were alarming: most of these juices, especially carrot juice, contain excessive sugar levels—up to six grams per 100 milliliters, with some exceeding this limit. Öko-Test strongly advises against offering these juices to young children, as high sugar content poses health risks. While the vitamin A found in carrot juice is beneficial, the same nutritional value can be obtained from carrot puree, which is advised instead.
Öko-Test recommends using carrot juice only as an additive to grain or vegetable purees, where its vitamin C can aid iron absorption. The sole high-rated juice among baby juices was "Babydream Bio Karotte" from Rossmann, which scored satisfactorily. Other juices contained concerning levels of nitrates or furan, prompting caution among parents.
Next, Öko-Test turned its attention to black pepper, another staple found in most kitchens. The evaluation of 21 brands of black pepper revealed mixed results, with only five earning the prestigious "Good" rating. Eleven received "Satisfactory," four ended with "Adequate," and one product was rated as "Unsatisfactory". The survey took not only the quality of ingredients but also corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices, underscoring the need for sustainable and fair employment within the pepper industry.
While the number of problematic ingredients was relatively low, Öko-Test identified five products containing elevated or significantly elevated levels of mineral oil and two with pesticide residues. The ratings concerning CSR practices were even more concerning. Many brands provided little proof of ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for pepper farmers, with twelve brands failing to meet minimum standards.
For those seeking responsibly sourced black pepper, the top-rated brands include "K-Bio Pfeffer, schwarz" from Kaufland, "dm Bio Schwarzer Pfeffer" from Naturland, and two Fair Trade-certified products: "Alnatura Schwarzer Pfeffer" and "Ener Bio Schwarzer Pfeffer, Naturland" from Rossmann.
Switching to personal care, Öko-Test also examined 20 fragrance-free eye creams. The study yielded positive outcomes, with 13 products scoring "Very Good" or "Good". The top-performing products were largely from certified natural cosmetics lines, all of which avoided harmful preservatives, silicones, and microplastics. Highly rated brands include Alterra Sensitiv Augencreme, Urtekram Sensitive Skin Eye Cream, and Hej Organic Sensitive Augen Creme-Serum.
Nevertheless, not every product emerged unscathed. Some well-known brands contained questionable ingredients such as formaldehyde, which can provoke allergies and is associated with cancer risks, and chlorphenesin, which may irritate the skin. Although packaging was thoroughly assessed, many manufacturers still relied heavily on plastic tubes or superfluous cardboard boxes, raising concerns about environmental sustainability.
Öko-Test noted the Alterra Sensitiv Augencreme as particularly commendable, being the only product tested with over 30 percent of its packaging made from recycled materials. Yet, overall, the study highlighted the need for manufacturers to prioritize sustainable practices.
The final segment of Öko-Test’s evaluations focused on protein bars—a favored snack for fitness enthusiasts. Out of 20 varieties tested, the examination revealed varied protein quality. While most bars contain major milk proteins often blended with soy protein—a good foundation—they also often include lower-quality fillers like gelatin and collagen hydrolysate, which may deter vegetarians and vegans due to their animal origins.
The report classified protein bars as highly processed industrial products, noting common reliance on additives for flavor enhancement. The mention of "natural flavors" raised questions about their origins, leading to potential consumer deception. Further concerns arose around artificial sweeteners, which were found in 17 of the examined bars and are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and negative impacts on gut health.
Only three protein bars managed to attain the "Good" rating under Öko-Test: "Aldi Sports Protein Riegel Brownie Geschmack" (30% protein), "Hej Bar 20 g Protein Chocolate & Peanuts" (34% protein), and "Powerbar Protein + Low Sugar Chocolate Brownie" (29% protein). Distinctly, the Aldi bar was not only the most economical but also the top taste performer with the highest sensory score.
Öko-Test cautioned against the over-reliance on protein bars as nutritional essentials, affirming people can meet their protein needs through regular foods, particularly well-timed consumption of protein-rich meals post-exercise.
These evaluations from Öko-Test shed light on both health impacts and corporate ethics, providing consumers with valuable insights to navigate their purchasing decisions effectively. With rising awareness about product quality and safety, informed choices can promote healthier lifestyles and support responsible businesses.