As the test shows, good quality is available for little money. The test winner from S-Budget not only scored points for its sensory and microbiological test results, but also for its low price of 50 cents per 100 grams. In comparison, the price of the other salads was between 50 cents and 2.19 euros per 100 grams.

Four other salads also achieved acceptable test results
Four other products were also found to be okay overall, but showed slight defects in terms of smell, taste and/or texture when tasted. In addition, the microbiological examination of these salads also revealed yeast contamination. In one case, the guideline value for molds was exceeded.

Three products "not suitable for human consumption"
Based on the microbiological results, three salads were found to be "not suitable for human consumption". The bacterial counts measured for Bacillus cereus were above the warning value recommended by the German Society for Hygiene and Microbiology. This group of bacteria comprises several species in total.

Molds exceeding the warning value
The AK test also revealed that one of these mixed salads exceeded the warning value for mold fungi. However, after thorough washing with water, despite the lack of instructions on the packaging, these salads could also be consumed without hesitation.

The right way to handle ready-made salads
Even if there is no indication on the packaging that the salad needs to be washed, or if there is a label such as "ready to eat and washed" on the packaging, bagged salads should be washed again thoroughly under running water before eating. And last but not least, you should trust your own senses. If the lettuce smells yeasty, fermented, sour or musty when you open it, or if the lettuce already has brown spots, then it's better to throw it in the garbage can instead of putting it on your plate.