GS1 & 2D Barcodes
Unlock the future of product traceability with the shift to GS1 Global Barcode Standards
The Shift to GS1 Digital Link & 2D Barcodes
The New Era In Barcode Technology
The NewEra in Barcode Technology Did you know that by 2027 the familiar 1D barcodes we've used for over 50 years will begin to phase out? They're been replaced by more advanced 2D barcodes like the GS1 Digital Link. Unlike 1D barcodes, which only store a 13-digit GTIN, 2D barcodes hold more data, including batch numbers, expiration dates, and nutritional info. This shift will provide food manufacturers, retailers, and consumers with richer, real-time access to product details, enhancing traceability and transparency across the supply chain. GS1 standards continue to shape this transformation.
Key Benefits
The transition to GS1 Digital Link and 2D barcodes provides key benefits for food & beverage manufacturers:
• Enhanced data availability for a more efficient supply chain management, improving retailer stock management and product tracking.
• Improved regulatory compliance meeting traceability and FSMA standards.
• Greater consumer trust through easy access to product details like ingredients and expiry dates.
• Increased sustainability by reducing packaging waste and streamlining designs through higher data capacity.
• Enhanced data availability for a more efficient supply chain management, improving retailer stock management and product tracking.
• Improved regulatory compliance meeting traceability and FSMA standards.
• Greater consumer trust through easy access to product details like ingredients and expiry dates.
• Increased sustainability by reducing packaging waste and streamlining designs through higher data capacity.
Regulatory Compliance & GS1
The FDA's Food Traceability Final Rule (FSMA 204), published in 2022, requires businesses handling foods on the Traceability List to maintain additional records by January 20, 2026. FSMA aims to enhance traceability, prevent outbreaks, and foster a stronger food safety culture. Companies must track Critical Tracking Events (CTEs) using Key Data Elements (KDES), which correspond to GS1 Standards like the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) and Global Location Number (GLN). GS1 Standards are one of the options outlined by the FDA to improve traceability and help meet FSMA US requirements.
Navigating A Smooth Transition
The shift to GS1 Digital Link and 2D barcodes presents challenges for food manufacturers, as current printing equipment may lack the capability to handle dynamic data. With the 2027 deadline approaching, it's crucial to assess and upgrade systems now. Packaging Verification Systems is here to help you identify equipment needs and ensure a seamless transition. Our range of Check Sure solutions support compliance, improve traceability, and keep your packaging operations efficient, enabling you to stay ahead of industry changes.
