Polish scientists recently conducted a study of the composition of doner kebabs from 35 eateries across Poland and Germany and received shocking results.
A study conducted by the University of Wrocław aimed to determine whether the meat used in kebabs is what is advertised on the labels. The results were alarming: only 28% of the kebab samples contained the meat they were sold under.
Using genetic testing, the researchers found that 60% of the samples contained undeclared meat or cheaper substitutes.
For example, lamb was often replaced with chicken or beef, and some kebabs even contained pork instead of lamb. This is especially troubling for those who avoid pork for religious or cultural reasons. Interestingly, chicken skewers tended to be more accurate in terms of labeling, although one sample still had beef mixed in.
Although this study covered only a small sample from Poland and Germany, similar problems were found in other countries. For example, in Great Britain, a 2009 study found that 40% of kebabs did not have an accurate indication of the meat they contained.
It is important to note that these results do not represent all kebab establishments. Many reputable restaurants offer high-quality and properly labeled options.
However, labeling transparency is critical to maintaining consumer trust. If you are a kebab lover, it would be wise to check the ingredients or ask about the meat before you eat it.