In this priority action, a survey was conducted using checklists to determine the extent to which delicatessen counters have set up systems for the traceability of goods offered openly or portioned and repackaged, so that it is possible to check at what point in time the shelf life specified by the manufacturer is reached when the goods are delivered to the end consumer or whether this period is exceeded. The aim is to establish traceable systems to ensure that goods offered in delicatessen counters are fit for human consumption.

77 checklists were returned. Most of the audited establishments (85.7%) have implemented traceability systems at least in part. However, the practicality of the systems is often not given. Within the scope of the action, 74 samples from all over Austria were examined. Twelve samples (16.2 %) were rejected:

• Nine samples (12 %) were objected to as unsuitable, impaired in value, misleading (Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011) or due to non-compliance with the requirements of Regulation (EC) No. 852/2004 due to microbiological and/or sensory deficiencies.
• Three samples (4%) showed labeling deficiencies.

The high rate of complaints regarding fitness for human consumption and germ contamination indicates considerable hygienic deficiencies in the distribution of goods through delicatessen counters.