Pet food coding and marking: how to ensure readable codes on bags, cans and flexible packaging
Pet food packaging must protect the product, communicate the brand and carry critical variable information. Best-before dates, batch numbers, production data and traceability codes all need to remain clear and legible from the end of the production line through to the shelf, warehouse and consumer’s home. That is not always straightforward. Pet food is sold […]
2D code verification: how to check Data Matrix and QR code quality
A 2D code can look clear to the human eye and still fail to scan reliably in production, logistics or at the point of sale. That is why 2D code verification matters. It goes beyond confirming that a scanner can read a QR code or Data Matrix once. It measures whether the symbol has the […]
Laser marking for medical devices: reliable DataMatrix codes on engineering plastics
Medical devices and diagnostic components need identification that remains clear, accurate and readable throughout handling, distribution and use. On small plastic parts, labels may be impractical, while ink-based printing may not always provide the required durability or contrast. This is where laser marking for medical devices can offer a practical solution. By applying text, logos […]
Battery Passport 2027: why the QR code does not replace component marking
The Battery Passport is one of the most significant changes facing the battery value chain. From 18 February 2027, the EU Batteries Regulation requires a QR code on batteries placed on the EU market. For electric-vehicle batteries, light means of transport (LMT) batteries and industrial batteries with a capacity above 2 kWh, that QR code […]
EU PPWR for US exporters: what packaging manufacturers need to review before selling into Europe
EU PPWR for US exporters is now a market-access and production-line issue. US manufacturers that sell packaged products into Europe need to review materials, packaging components, coding and traceability before placing products on the EU market. The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, known as PPWR, starts applying generally on 12 August 2026. It covers […]
Ice cream packaging coding: from individual pack to pallet
Ice cream packaging coding must remain clear and traceable across every packaging level, from individual wrappers and tubs to cartons, cases and pallets. Each format uses different materials and moves differently through production. Achieving reliable results therefore requires more than selecting a single coding technology. The substrate, production speed, cold-chain conditions, variable data and verification […]
Coding on recyclable and mono-material packaging
Coding on recyclable packaging is becoming an important consideration for manufacturers redesigning their packs to reduce waste and improve material recovery. Moving towards recyclable or mono-material packaging, however, affects much more than the packaging structure. It can also change how batch numbers, expiry dates, barcodes and 2D codes must be applied. Films may become thinner, coatings […]
FSMA Rule 204 delayed until 2028: what food manufacturers should do now.
FSMA Rule 204 has become one of the most important food traceability regulations for manufacturers supplying the U.S. market. Although the FDA has extended the compliance deadline until July 20, 2028, the requirements remain exactly the same. Understanding FSMA Rule 204 today will help manufacturers prepare more effectively for tomorrow’s traceability demands. For many food manufacturers, processors, distributors […]
GS1 Sunrise 2027: 5 questions every manufacturer should answer before adopting 2D barcodes
GS1 Sunrise 2027 for manufacturers is much more than a barcode update. It marks the beginning of the transition towards GS1-compliant 2D barcodes that will support improved traceability, richer product information and enhanced consumer engagement. For production and packaging teams, understanding what this transition means today is essential to preparing for tomorrow. Driven by GS1 Sunrise 2027, […]