The aim of the focus action was to check whether the legal requirements for ceramics are met. In addition, it was determined whether glass and crystal glass products used to store food release heavy metals. 66 samples from all over Austria were examined. 30 samples were rejected:

• no sample was rejected because of heavy metals
• in 20 samples the legally required declaration of compliance was missing or incomplete
• for 21 samples the address of the manufacturer/processor/marketer was missing
• five samples did not meet the traceability requirements due to the lack of an identifiable name or article number.

Problems with ceramic and glass tableware due to high levels of lead, cadmium and cobalt are repeatedly reported via the European Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF). Metals are used in glass and ceramic manufacturing for coloring. At EU level, a significant reduction of the existing maximum levels and an extension to other metals are planned.