The aim of the focus action "Composition and hygiene of coloring food extracts and concentrates" was the chemical-physical and microbiological examination of the coloring foods marketed and used in Austria. 21 samples from all over Austria were examined. Two samples were rejected:

• One sample showed traces of the banned synthetic dye Sudan red IV
• One sample due to incorrect labeling

The use of coloring foods instead of food dyes has become increasingly important in industrial and commercial food production in recent years. In 2013, the European Commission developed and published a guideline for the classification of food extracts and concentrates with coloring properties. All coloring foods marketed and used in Austria have had to comply with the requirements of this guideline since November 29, 2015.