OAL and GS1 help food manufacturers prepare for the second barcode revolution
OAL is leading the “Second Barcode Revolution” roll-out to cut food waste with the launch of its latest software solution for creating, printing and verifying data-rich, on-pack QR and 2D codes designed to meet consumer demand for greater transparency of ingredient origins and methods of production.
The software allows unique traceability and manufacturing data to be incorporated into on-pack 2D codes, improving consumer experience to identify allergens, significantly enhancing food safety and reducing food waste by up to 40%.
The OAL solution enables the creation, inline printing and verification of on-pack QR/2D codes containing critical information such as best before date, allergens and batch data.
The solution is in conformance with the GS1 Digital Link standard enabling consumers to access detailed product information in what is being called the “second barcode revolution”, while also enabling retailers to manage inventory more precisely, quickly identify expired products and provide consumers with detailed product information. OAL install inline camera technology to verify the integrity of every QR/2D code printed.
Leveraging GS1’s barcode technology, OAL aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and product traceability. The OAL QR code solution stemmed from an initiative led by Tesco to reduce food waste in the supply chain. Tesco’s new initiative allows packs to be scanned by smartphones, and at the point of sale, sharing more information with consumers than the finite space on pack and standard barcode can offer.
Jake Norman, managing director, OAL, notes that the automated control systems already collect and store huge amounts of traceability data to ensure food safety.
“We know at a pack level the exact time and raw materials that have been used to make each product controlled by our system,” Norman says. “The use of QR codes and the GS1 Digital link is a great way to expand the use of this data to grant consumers the transparency they’re urgently seeking and drive down food waste.”
OAL has pledged to support all manufacturers in integrating a range of QR/2D codes to their process, facilitating seamless data sharing and improving food safety. This comprehensive data ensures product authenticity and simplifies recall processes. OAL’s printer agnostic solution can integrate and control all printer brands. The solution can be retrofitted to existing packaging lines.
The solution is available now for new and existing customers. For more information, visit https://www.oalgroup.com/gs1-new-barcode
