Especially for health-conscious, vegetarian, or vegan consumers, red lentils are used increasingly during cooking. They are rich in trace elements, dietary fiber, and vegetable protein and thus a good source of nutrients. As a result of the growing demand, the supply of lentil products has also increased in recent years.
Red lentils under the microscope
In a recent test, red lentils from 20 different manufacturers were put under the microscope. Among them were conventionally as well as organically grown products. A total of nine of the legumes tested were not convincing. They received the rating “satisfactory” or worse.
Residues of glyphosate and glufosinate detected
Pesticide residues were found in all conventionally grown lentils, including the pesticides glyphosate and glufosinate. One product even showed a strongly increased amount of glufosinate. This herbicide has been banned in the EU since 2019, as it is suspected of impairing fertility and harming the unborn child in the womb. Glufosinate was also detected in an organic product.
Mineral oil residues of MOAH and MOSH were also found
Regardless of whether they were conventionally or organically grown, mineral oil residues were detected in almost all lentil products: 15 products were contaminated with MOAH or MOSH. MOAH is an aromatic mineral oil hydrocarbons that can be carcinogenic, i.e. promote cancer. MOSH is a compound of saturated hydrocarbons that can be deposited in body fat or organs and lead to the formation of tumors. These substances can enter the product during production lubricants or through packaging. Therefore, it is important to maintain high-quality standards throughout the production process.
The Tentamus Group tests your lentils – for harmless lentil enjoyment
How can you, as a lentil manufacturer, determine whether your raw material is also contaminated?
The Tentamus laboratories can help you analyze your lentils for MOSH and MOAH as well as contaminants from pesticides such as glyphosate or glufosinate. We ensure that possible residues in your product do not exceed the legally prescribed limits and that you can offer your lentils on the market without any concerns. Besides, we support you in the general marketability testing of your food. This includes: risk-relevant analyses, labeling tests, and microbiological checks.
If you have any questions about our services, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our expert will be happy to help you.
Roy Sperling
roy.sperling@tentamus.com
+49 (0) 30 206 038 320
Source: Öko-Test
Source: https://www.tentamus-web.com/tentamus-it/testing-red-lentils/