A surprise among radish seeds – or here is the latest Supermint test

By: STA Date: 2025. 04. 15. 11:00

In the latest product test of the Supermint program, radish seeds were tested by experts from the National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih). Everything was found to be in order in the laboratory and official inspections, however, insect contamination was detected in one product during the popularity test. The test continues at the Nébih variety breeding station in Szarvas with monitoring the development of the plants.

(Photo: Pixabay)

Radishes are among the popular vegetables of the spring season, which is why they are found in many vegetable gardens. Gardeners can choose from several types of radish seeds. The Supermint comparative test included round, red, month-old radish seeds, which are widely and continuously available in markets and shops. The experts tested a total of 22 seeds intended for small garden sowing, including three hybrids. Nine were domestic and thirteen were foreign in origin.

Nébih laboratory experts primarily examined the main quality indicators, germination capacity, purity and foreign seed content.

The results are reassuring, as each product met the relevant limit values. The official inspectors checked the presence of mandatory markings and basic product information on the radish seed packaging, such as the indication of the variety and origin. During the inspection, it was also a consideration whether the seeds were offered to customers in sealed packaging that protects quality. The tested products met all criteria.

Experts and laypeople evaluated the seeds in the popularity test.

During the visual inspection, the experts determined that one product was contaminated with insects. In the contaminated bag, a live beetle larva and eight molted larval skins were identified in the laboratory. Due to a quality defect, the official inspectors warned the distributor concerned and ordered it to destroy the batch still in stock.

The final ranking was based on the results of the popularity survey

The top step of the podium was taken by the Rédei Kertimag Óriás butter radish, the second place was taken by the Gartenland Rudi radish, and the third place was taken by the Rédei Kertimag Ester radish. As a continuation of the product test, the tested seeds have already been sown at the Nébih Szarvas variety breeding station, where experts are monitoring the development of the plants. The Szupermenta team will soon report on the practical experiences.

Nébih