“Iron-deficient” yield enhancer also found in Superminta nutrition bar test

(Photo: Nébih)

Nutrition bars that help replenish plant nutrients are widely available, in almost every gardening store and DIY store. The comparative test of Superminta included nutrition bars used for green or leafy ornamental plants, flowering plants, geraniums or balcony plants, but also those promised for general and special purposes. A total of 20 food bars – 13 foreign and 7 domestically produced – were examined by the experts.

The active ingredient content indicated on the products and the presence of toxic elements were checked in the Nébih laboratory

It is reassuring that no contaminants were present in any of the products. Based on the results, objections were raised regarding the quality of two products: in one, the amount of zinc and in the other, the amount of iron proved to be lower than the values ​​indicated on the packaging. The official inspectors warned the manufacturer and distributor concerned and called on them to correct the errors.

The experts checked the presence of mandatory markings and basic product information on the food bar packaging, as well as the legality of the stated claims

The “special” indicator was included on the packaging of two products, as one food bar was intended to treat fungal and the other to treat insect damage. During the inspection, it was revealed that the manufacturer had illegally displayed the special label, as the products did not meet the promised effect. The problem also existed with two other products of the manufacturer concerned that were not included in the product test but were intended for a similar purpose. Due to the unauthorized display of a plant protection effect, the official inspectors ordered the withdrawal of all four products and their official seizure, and prohibited their further marketing. A plant protection fine of approximately HUF 3.3 million was imposed on the manufacturer concerned.

The popularity test could not be left out in the case of food bars either

This time, expert and lay reviewers scored the food bars using a questionnaire compiled based on various customer criteria, which is how the final ranking was formed. The Vitaflóra flower and balcony plant nutrient bar was placed at the top of the podium, the Vitaflóra Premium quality leafy ornamental plant nutrient bar and the Vitaflóra leafy ornamental plant nutrient bar tied for second place, and the Oázis leafy ornamental plant nutrient bar came in third place.

Nébih