More than half of Polish bakeries are facing scrutiny following a recent inspection that revealed widespread mislabeling and inaccurate ingredient lists, according to a report released February 8, 2026. The findings, from the Inspection of Agricultural and Food Products Quality (IJHARS), indicate that 58.6% of the 87 producers examined had irregularities, primarily concerning product labeling.
The inspection revealed that nearly 48% of the bread samples tested had misleading or inaccurate labeling, with names implying a higher quality or composition than was actually present. This is particularly concerning for consumers seeking specific types of bread, such as whole wheat, spelt, or graham bread.
Specifically, bread marketed as “whole wheat” contained an average of only 24.5% whole wheat flour. “Spelt” bread contained approximately 4.7% spelt flour, and many “graham” breads did not contain any graham flour at all. The report also highlighted the misuse of terms like “traditional,” “artisan,” and “natural” on products made with pre-made mixes and artificial additives.
Beyond labeling issues, inspectors found instances of ingredients being omitted from the list or substituted with cheaper alternatives. Sunflower oil was sometimes replaced with rapeseed oil, and artificial sweeteners were used in place of honey. Incorrect nutritional information was also noted during the review.
IJHARS emphasized that ingredient information must be readily available for all bread, including loaves sold loose. This information should be displayed on a sign or in a catalog near the counter, eliminating the need for customers to ask bakery staff. This is especially important for individuals with allergies, as the inspection also identified issues with the proper labeling of allergens.
These findings come at a time when consumers are increasingly focused on food quality and transparency, and could lead to increased scrutiny of the food industry. The report underscores the importance of accurate labeling and ingredient disclosure for maintaining consumer trust and ensuring fair market practices.
