How important barcodes and product information are

Our article at Baking Europe looks why the data encoded in those black and white lines – the barcodes – really matters

The three-page article examines how the quality and accuracy of product information, as well as the correct product labelling, are now more vital than ever before.

Consumers are increasingly demanding for more information to be available in order to make an informed buying decision. They’re now looking for nutritional and allergen details, country of origin, ingredients, storage instructions, expiry dates and much more. The increased interest in the source of food is a case in point, where good quality product data begins at the farm gate and must be maintained as products move through the supply chain. But how can we ensure that farmers, manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and, ultimately, the consumer, all have the information they need?

This is where GS1 standards come in. The article examines how good product information needs to be shared between all parties in the supply chain. Using standards makes the supply chain operate more efficiently and effectively and can help rule out the use of inconsistent or poor quality product information, while growing loyalty and increasing trust and confidence in brands.