The aim of the campaign was to obtain an up-to-date overview of the composition, quality and possible contamination with veterinary medicines, pesticides and pyrrolizidine alkaloids in honey sold on the Austrian market that originates from the EU (but not Austria) and from third countries. In addition, the authenticity of the honey was to be verified.

Fifty-four samples from all over Austria were examined. Eight samples were rejected:

• Two samples were found to be adulterated, i.e. the sample did not consist exclusively of honey.
• In five samples, the maximum value for hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content was exceeded. This indicates excessive heat treatment or improper storage
• In one sample (forest honey), the analytically determined electrical conductivity content was too low