For many, smoked salmon is an essential part of a luxurious breakfast, especially during the holiday season. However, according to Stiftung Warentest, it rarely meets gourmet standards. The product testers evaluated 17 types of smoked salmon, including four vegan alternatives, as detailed in the January 2025 issue of “test.”

Quality Issues in Many Products

The testers discovered several sensory flaws in both farmed and wild salmon varieties. Common issues included blood spots on the slices and a slightly bitter aftertaste. In one farmed salmon sample, the testers detected a milky-sour odor, indicating the product had already begun to spoil. This product received a rating of “poor.”

The Best Smoked Salmon: Price Reflects Quality

So, which smoked salmon tastes best? For both farmed and wild varieties, the most flavorful options were also the most expensive.

Among farmed salmon, “Nord Atlantik Lachs” by Bio-verde topped the list with a score of 1.7. Testers described it as “aromatic, with a mild smoky flavor and a strong salmon taste.” However, the price might leave a bitter taste: at 8 euros per 100 grams, it was the most expensive smoked salmon tested.

For wild salmon, “Kodiak Wildlachs Geräuchert” by Friedrichs scored 2.2. At 6.49 euros per 100 grams, it was the second most expensive product. According to the testers, buyers can expect a strong wild salmon aroma and taste, free from sensory defects.

Vegan Smoked Salmon Alternatives

How did the four vegan alternatives fare? The best-rated product was “My Veggie Vegan Smoked Lax” by Edeka, earning a score of 2.0. Testers noted its “slightly tangy taste, reminiscent of fish roe.”

However, none of the vegan options were considered a true culinary revelation. While notes of smoke and seaweed somewhat mimicked traditional smoked salmon, some samples had a faint fruity or broth-like taste. The texture also differed significantly, with testers likening it to aspic. Three of the four vegan options were made from water and modified starch, while one was carrot-based.

Stiftung Warentest’s findings suggest that while premium smoked salmon can deliver exceptional taste, consumers should be ready to pay a premium price. Meanwhile, vegan alternatives, while improving, still fall short of replicating the authentic smoked salmon experience.