Austria—As part of our commitment to the Tri Dharma of Higher Education—education, research, and community service—TRG Postharvest Metabo-Engineering conducted an international activity entitled Plant Extraction. The program was carried out from 3–14 November 2025 at the Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Technology University of Vienna (TU Wien), Austria. This activity marked an important milestone in strengthening scientific collaboration between Technology University of Vienna (TU Wien) and Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas), particularly in advancing research on natural dye extraction from plants for food applications.
     The activity was designed to support the objective of strengthening partnership between TU Wien and Unhas for Natural Dye Extraction from Plants in Food Applications through knowledge exchange, laboratory practice, and interdisciplinary discussion. Bringing together expertise in food science, extraction technology, and sustainable innovation, the program created a valuable platform for collaborative learning and future research development.
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     The program involved 20 participants, consisting of researchers, students, and academic representatives engaged in experimental and scientific discussions throughout the activity period. Under the international partnership led by Prof. Heidi Halbwirth, participants explored modern approaches to plant extraction, focusing on obtaining natural pigments and bioactive compounds that can potentially serve as safer and more sustainable alternatives to synthetic colorants used in food products. Plant extraction is an essential process in converting plant-based resources into valuable functional ingredients through selective separation techniques. During the program, participants gained practical exposure to extraction principles, optimization of extraction conditions, characterization of extracted compounds, and evaluation of their applicability in food systems. These activities also emphasized sustainability considerations, ensuring that extraction methods align with environmentally responsible practices and efficient resource utilization.
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     Among the participating students, Lucas, Vicky, and Chaterine actively contributed to laboratory activities, scientific discussions, and collaborative sessions. Their participation reflected the important role of young researchers in driving innovation and expanding international scientific networks. This activity also demonstrated a strong commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, the program contributed to SDG 1: No Poverty by promoting innovation and value creation from plant resources that may support future sustainable economic opportunities and local agro-industrial development. Second, the initiative supported SDG 4: Quality Education through international academic exchange, hands-on research experiences, and capacity building among students and researchers. Third, and most prominently, the collaboration embodied SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges through science, innovation, and shared expertise.
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Overall, the Plant Extraction activity became more than a laboratory-based research program; it served as a strategic international collaboration that strengthened academic relationships, enhanced scientific competencies, and opened opportunities for future innovations in sustainable natural dye development for food applications.
