They checked the ice cream and...it's a bit cold. Half of it is questionable.

Disturbing results from the sanitary inspection. Nearly half of the ice cream vending machines tested in our province were questioned. Eleven decisions were issued prohibiting sales.

During random inspections conducted between July 7 and 9 of this year across the province, the sanitary inspectorate questioned nearly half of the ice cream samples tested from vending machines. 49% of them were found to contain excessive levels of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria – microorganisms indicating inadequate hygiene conditions in the production process.

As part of the inspection, a total of 205 samples from 41 batches of ice cream were collected, primarily in locations with high tourist traffic. Although Salmonella or Listeria monocytogenes were not detected in any of the samples, as many as 100 samples exceeded the acceptable level of Enterobacteriaceae – non-pathogenic microorganisms considered indicators of inadequate sanitary conditions.

Enterobacteriaceae bacteria naturally occur in the human large intestine. Consuming products containing them, especially by individuals with weakened immune systems or gastrointestinal diseases, can lead to gastrointestinal complaints.

"The inspection results are concerning, especially since they concern a product that is very popular in the summer," emphasizes Małgorzata Domagała-Dobrzycka, the West Pomeranian Voivodeship Chief Sanitary Inspector. "That's why we took swift administrative action. We want consumers—both residents and tourists—to be able to enjoy our food and drink safely."

The highest number of violations was found in the coastal region, in the counties of Gryfice, Kamień, Kołobrzeg, Koszalin, Sławno, and Świnoujście. Of the 90 samples collected in these locations, 50 were questioned.

More on this topic in "Kurier Szczeciński" and eKurier of July 17, 2025.

(K)