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Traceability: A Way to Increase Farmers’ Income by Ensuring Access to High-Quality Seeds

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Indian agricultural sector is considered as the backbone of our country. Two-third of our population is dependent on agriculture directly or indirectly. The sector is not merely a source of livelihood but it is the main source of food, fodder and fuel.

This is the only sector that contributed to the growth of not only itself but also of the other sector of the country as well which makes it a basic foundation of our economic development.

India is the leading producer of spices, fish, poultry, livestock, plantation crops and ranks as the world’s largest producer of milk, pulses and jute. It is the only sector that has led to the growth of not only of itself but of the country’s other sector as well.

Indian companies produce everything required as agricultural inputs, starting from seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation equipment to farm machinery and plant health technologies.

However, there are still several obstacles that need to be tackled to keep the country self-reliant in fulfilling its food needs and increase exports of agricultural produce, besides contributing to the Prime Minister’s mandate of doubling the farmers’ income and revamping agricultural economy by 2022.

One of the major obstacles that have come to the forefront from the past several months is the quality of seeds reaching to farmers.  A seed particularly has an important input into agriculture, which has a major responsibility for crop production and contribution of all other inputs are largely depends on the quality of seeds. It is estimated that the direct contribution of quality seed alone has a positive impact on overall production by approximately 15-20 percent.

Sub-standard seeds affect farming and impact livelihood of farmers. Over the past few years, farmers have reported that the poor quality of seed impacted their crops and their overall livelihood. This is despite the fact that India has approximately 135 seed testing laboratories and 25 seed certification authorities.

This hints at the bigger problem of counterfeiting of seeds, leading to low-quality of seeds reaching to market, and then to farmers. The problem calls for the immediate adoption of such a system that will prevent the counterfeiting of seeds and ensure only genuine and high-quality seeds reach to farmers.

The best way to enhance Indian agricultural sector is by introducing global standards of barcoding and effective end-to-end traceability system to ensure that Seed Corporations and the agricultural departments in the Centre and State governments can keep a check on supply chains and ensure that no infiltration is happening in between. This will result in high-quality seeds reaching to farmers.

With this objective, the government is developing a portal where information on seed could be captured digitally, including grower’s details, lot number, production data and seed testing laboratory codes.

This would help users (farmers and retailers selling seeds) decode it with the scan of a barcode to validate information on the seed packet. However, this solves the counterfeit issue just on the surface as most counterfeit products copy entire product labels, including barcodes, which will still pose validation problems.

To tackle that, we need to uniquely identify each unit that is being sold, so that we know that a product once sold, could not be sold again. This would act as an effective mechanism to detect and arrest counterfeits at the point of sale. GS1 global supply chain standards enable this and have proved effective in controlling counterfeits and enabling product authentication at point-of-sale.

Additionally, the adoption of global identification standards would help uniquely identify each seed packet. Also, its adoption enables compliance with global regulations, providing seed manufacturers with a competitive edge in the global market. And most importantly, this will increase farmers’ income by ensuring they have access to high-quality seeds. Traceability system help farmers in track, trace and identify seed’s origin such as from where the seed has arrived or been produced during the purchase of seeds.

Some other benefits of adoption of Global Traceability Standards include: 

  • Enhanced operational efficiency in distribution, transport and logistic processes
  • Ability to react faster to incident or crisis and more targeted recalls
  • Ability to authenticate the origin of seeds by capturing its supply chain journey
  • Detecting counterfeit
  • Increased transparency between business-to-business and business-to-consumer transactions, enabling trust

To avail the benefits of GS1 India’s Traceability service for a transparent supply chain process, visit us at https://support.gs1india.org/traceability-service-consultation

Common Mistakes Made While Printing the Product Barcode

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

To be able to sell products in the retail market, manufacturers & brand owners need to affix barcode labels on their products or include barcodes into the product packaging. These 13-digit GTIN numbers printed on product labels/packaging help in uniquely identifying products, and thus, facilitate in its tracking and tracing, inventory management, and product recall if required.

Hence, it is essential for every brand owner to print barcodes accurately to enable efficient scanning with different barcode scanners and in different scanning environments.

In this blog, we are listing some common mistakes that companies make while printing barcodes on their products, which lead to compromised scanning efficiency

  • Light margins/white space is required around the barcode for scanners to read them efficiently. Most companies leave smaller white space than required around the barcode symbol.
  • Since product packaging is small and manufacturers need to convey too much information through it, generally this leads to shortening of barcodes. Check GS1 General Specification for prescribed barcode height on product packaging.
  • Use of incorrect colour combination also leads to poor scanning. Barcode bars should always be of dark colour on white or lighter background. Use of transparent or semitransparent substrates, such as glass or plastic will lead to poor scanning.
  • Printing of barcodes, which are either too large or too small, also adds to problems
  • Incorrect adjustment for ink spread
  • Stretching/compressing barcode symbol horizontally, leading to too wide/too narrow barcode bars
  • Placing labels too close to vertical corners or placing barcodes too close to the edge
  • Peeling and creased labels
  • Using uncovered metal surfaces as a background or for the bars of a symbol. The specular reflectance of the substrate can cause problems
  • Use of the same GTINs on different product lines / SKUs also adds to confusion for retailer/supply chain traders. This defeats the entire purpose of uniquely identifying objects and capturing this identity in the form of barcodes for efficient reading.

Hence, it is crucial for manufacturing companies to follow barcode printing requirements to ensure that the product barcodes can be scanned, wherever required.

Learn more about things to consider when printing and creating barcodes.

Get your barcodes tested

Before bulk printing of product packages, it makes sense for organisations to get their sample product packaging with barcode tested to ensure their scannability.

GS1, a global standards organization, helps businesses to barcode their products with unique identification keys. It also runs a service for brand owners that helps them test their barcodes before bulk printing of product labels.

At the completion of testing, a detailed barcode verification report is provided by GS1 India, which includes recommendations for changes, if necessary. GS1 verification reports are accepted by retailers globally and are a prerequisite for acceptance of products by many.

Tips to Increase Traffic to Your Products’ Sales Pages

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

With the world transforming digitally, a brand owner needs to build and maintain a strong & a powerful online presence for its products with accurate & up-to-date information. This would help them build up a success story which is directly proportional to consumer interaction & trust.

Brand owners need traffic on their product pages to enable sales and enhance their product’s visibility in search engines. The number of visitors on the product sales pages is equivalent to the number of potential consumer opportunities you may have. Better qualified leads turn into conversions which help sell your product or service, attract new customers, and continue to expand your business.

In today’s blog post, we’ve listed down ways to push or increase traffic towards your product page. So, you can build on your success today and start competing with market leaders in your product segment/category.

Let’s get started:

1. Advertise your product on various social media platforms

First and foremost, to increase traffic to your product page is to advertise. Advertise your product on various social media platforms. It is a great way to drive more traffic, attract customers and get your product’s content/promotions across the right target audience

2. Optimize your webpage with right keywords 

If you’re going to add great and relevant content on your product’s page, then it is essential for you to understand the role of SEO in driving more traffic to your page organically.

SEO is a marketing strategy that makes the e-Commerce site show up for different keywords/search terms, which are relevant to your product. Therefore, if anyone enters a search word in Google, the top result, your product page will appear in the search results. SEO and content work hand-in-hand. Great content with relevant keywords help boost traffic on the page organically and increase the rank of the page in search engines.

A good starting point here should be to think about which search terms your product’s page already ranks on.

3. Write attractive headlines to boost CTR (Click Through Rate)

CTR is a technical term to define the clickability of search results. For example, if after getting relevant google ranking for your page and you’re still not being able to drive more traffic to your page, it will be called that your headlines have low CTR.

CTR can be used to gauge how well your keywords and ads are performing. CTR displays a well-written ad – several people who saw it were persuaded that they should participate and react to the page by clicking the link.

To trigger people to visit your page, you have to use power words for psychological and emotional response

4. Invest in GoogleAdwords

Don’t underestimate what online advertising can do to help your business increase your page traffic. One of the best and fastest ways to increase traffic to your product’s page is advertising through Google Adwords. Google AdWords is a form of pay-per-click ads, designed to draw more users to your page.

5. Label your products with barcodes

Did you know that barcode numbers of your products can also help you get better Google ranking?

Yes, you read it right. You can boost your products’ page ranking by using the unique GS1 barcode number of your products in web pages. GS1 barcodes help in the enhancement of products online results, as Google has shown the 40% improvement in the product’s search results when a barcode number is used on the product’s website or webpage, resulting in higher visibility in the marketplace which attracts more business.

Other than this, barcode numbers, subscribers through GS1 India, help in unambiguous and universal identification of products, free barcode management from DataKart service, and compliance with product data requirements of FSSAI, AGMARK, etc.

Bring more traffic to your product’s page using these tips which will support your business and help increase product sales.

Are you a Brand Owner Struggling to Save Your Brand’s Image From Counterfeit Products?

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Counterfeiting threats are real. Brands in all industry sectors, from apparel to health, beauty and electronics, are grappling with questions on how to ensure that their brand value is not undermined by scammers selling fake copies of their goods in the real market space.

As per a recent report by Authentication Solution Provider’s Association (ASPA), counterfeiting incidents have risen steadily in the last few years, and in 2019, these have increased by 24% as compared to 2018. The highest number of cases have been reported in currency, FMCG, alcohol, pharma, documents, agriculture, infrastructure, automotive, tobacco, lifestyle and apparel sectors. Among these, the FMCG sector is most vulnerable as counterfeit incidents in the sector increased by 63%.

Today counterfeiting has become a global industry, threatening the safety of the public eroding consumer confidence in brands, and destroying their reputation.

History of Barcodes

Problems associated with counterfeiting

Falsified products, especially belonging to healthcare, can have serious adverse effects on the wellbeing of a person. For example, if a person purchases a fake skincare product though the packaging and substance may look similar to the authentic brand but can cause skin infections and rashes when applied.

These consequences, when blown out of proportion using the power of instant communication through social media channels, is likely to damage the brand’s reputation and in turn affect consumer trust and hence sales. Customers are generally unaware that the product they bought is falsified, adds to it.

Secondly, there is also a business hazard of counterfeit goods, as this contributes to a loss of revenue for manufacturers. With the advent of technology and emergence of e-commerce portals, exact product packaging can be duplicated, making it even more difficult to catch counterfeit with the bare eye or on online portals. What’s real and what is fake has become very difficult and the lines become very blurred.

History of Barcodes

Need for an effective product traceability to stop counterfeiting

This is more critical than ever for brands to protect themselves and ensure that their brand values are not compromised by counterfeit products and gain consumers’ trust.

Traceability technology provides a tool to brands owners to keep themselves one step ahead in combating the counterfeiting of products. Brand owners can easily locate the entire batch of their products or any single product from the batch in the supply chain, with an effective traceability system, and can take corrective action whenever needed or required which helps in detecting counterfeiting at any level of the supply chain process.

Traceability refers to the organization’s ability to identify, track and trace elements of a product/consignment as it moves along the supply chain from raw goods to finished products.

To prevent counterfeiting of products, GS1 India offers a global standards based traceability service that enables brand owners to easily track and trace their products right through the journey from origin to the point of sale and consumption. Effective end-to-end traceability service not only helps them to respond to the problems immediately but also anticipate and prevent problems effectively. It helps them to secure data in real-time which further helps to reduce the risk of counterfeiting when products are still in transit.

Learn more – about GS1 Traceability Service.

A core component for this is product identification. This can be done by using barcodes/ serialised barcodes on product labels. To know more and register for unique product identification numbers, visit: https://www.gs1india.org/content/register-for-barcodes/ 

Realising the magnitude of damage caused by counterfeiting to the Indian economy, brands and consumers, Authentication Solutions Providers’s Association (ASPA) and GS1 India have joined hands and signed MOU to take the fight against counterfeiting to the next level in India, using global standards.

To avail the benefits of GS1 India’s Traceability service for a transparent supply chain process.

DataKart: National Repository of Information on Indian Retailed Products

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Reaching out to customers with accurate product information has never been more competitive and difficult for retailers than today.

 

This is majorly because of the ever increasing complexity of business processes with ever increasing consumer demands of more and more product information. As we move from single-channel retailing to multi-channel retailing, the need for better and efficient product data management has become critical.

 

Listing new products as soon as they are launched in the market is critical to ensure that consumers don’t go back without making sales. This is directly proportional to a retailers/e-tailers’ ability to quickly receive and update information on new products from several suppliers and present it to retail shoppers as per the requirement of the retailing channel, ensuring seamless shopping experience.

 

However, in the real world scenario, most of this product information is compromised (and lost to some extent) in the process of receiving the same from brand owners. This is because there is no one way of sharing information between brand owners and retailers/e-tailers. Information is being shared via multiple communication means including emails, SMSes, web forms, excel attachments, etc. This leads to a great deal of inconsistency in data shared by various suppliers.

 

However, no more. DataKart – the national repository of information on product attributes, solves this problem to a great extent. DataKart is developed by GS1 India, based on the requirements of the Indian retail industry to ease challenges in data sharing.

Learn more about the DataKart journey

 

DataKart enables retailers and online marketplaces to receive all the information on products, including product changes and new product introductions from one place, in their required native file format. This means that all they have to do is to view it and update their master item masters in just a few clicks, using DataKart APIs.

To know more, watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cbN3zJ6ZqM

 

Even Kirana stores can access complete and updated information, which is directly populated by brand owners at DataKart, using Point of Sale service providers. This happens since point of sale solution providers are increasingly using information from DataKart.

With DataKart, manufacturers can also directly connect with its consumers through Smart Consumer mobile app (Android & IOS) which enables them to share detailed product information to its consumers which is not clear on the package by scanning the GS1 barcode numbers (GTINs) so that they can make informed purchase decisions.

Product Traceability – A Way to Enhance Supply Chain Efficiency and Reduce Costs

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Overview:

Product traceability enhances supply chain efficiency by providing comprehensive tracking and management of goods from production to delivery. This transparency ensures quality control, minimises errors, and facilitates quick responses to issues like recalls or defects. By optimising inventory management and reducing waste, traceability also leads to significant cost savings, making it an invaluable tool for businesses aiming to streamline their operations and improve overall supply chain performance.

What is traceability in manufacturing?

Traceability in manufacturing refers to the ability to track the history, location, and application of products and their components throughout the production process. It involves documenting detailed information at each stage of the manufacturing cycle, from raw material sourcing to final product assembly. This data is recorded in a traceability system, allowing manufacturers to monitor the origin and journey of every part and product.

Traceability helps ensure quality control, compliance with industry standards, and quick identification of issues such as defects or recalls. It enhances transparency and accountability, enabling manufacturers to optimise processes, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality and safety.

Chain Traceability

Chain traceability refers to the ability to track and trace a product and its components through the entire supply chain, from raw material suppliers to end consumers. It provides a comprehensive view of the product’s journey, documenting each handoff and transformation. This end-to-end transparency helps ensure product authenticity, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards. Chain traceability is crucial for managing recalls, detecting counterfeit products, and maintaining consumer trust by verifying that the products meet all safety and quality requirements.

Internal Traceability

Internal traceability focuses on tracking and documenting the movement and transformation of materials and components within a single organisation or production facility. It involves detailed recording of processes such as assembly, inspection, and packaging. Internal traceability ensures that each step in the manufacturing process is monitored, allowing for quick identification of defects and quality issues. By maintaining precise records of internal operations, manufacturers can optimise workflows, improve quality control, and ensure compliance with industry standards, ultimately enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability of their production processes.

What is end-to-end traceability?

End-to-end traceability refers to the comprehensive tracking and documentation of a product’s entire journey through the supply chain, from the initial sourcing of raw materials to the final delivery to consumers. This concept encompasses every stage of the production and distribution process, providing a seamless and transparent view of a product’s lifecycle.

End-to-end traceability involves capturing detailed data at each step, including information about suppliers, manufacturing processes, quality inspections, logistics, and retail handling. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of a product’s movement and transformation are monitored and recorded. By integrating advanced technologies such as RFID, barcodes, and blockchain, businesses can achieve real-time visibility and data accuracy.

The benefits of end-to-end traceability are manifold. It enhances product quality and safety by enabling quick identification and resolution of issues, such as defects or contamination. It also aids in regulatory compliance, as detailed records can demonstrate adherence to industry standards and legal requirements. Additionally, end-to-end traceability helps prevent counterfeiting and fraud by verifying the authenticity and origin of products.

Why is product traceability in manufacturing important to implement?

Product traceability in manufacturing is crucial for several reasons. It ensures quality control by enabling manufacturers to track the history and journey of each component and finished product, identifying defects and inefficiencies promptly. This level of oversight helps in maintaining high standards and consistency.

Traceability also enhances regulatory compliance, as manufacturers can provide detailed records to meet industry and legal requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties. In the event of a product recall, traceability allows for swift and precise identification of affected items, minimizing the scope and cost of recalls while protecting consumer safety.

Additionally, traceability combats counterfeiting and ensures product authenticity, which is vital for maintaining brand integrity and consumer trust. By optimizing production processes and supply chain management, traceability ultimately leads to cost savings and improved operational efficiency.

How to track production in manufacturing?

Tracking production in manufacturing involves several key steps to ensure efficiency and quality control:

  1. Implement Technology: Use technologies like RFID, barcodes, and QR codes to tag and track materials and products throughout the production process. These technologies provide real-time data on the location and status of items.
  2. Utilize Software Systems: Employ Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to collect, manage, and analyze production data. These systems integrate with other tools to provide a comprehensive view of the manufacturing process.
  3. Data Logging: Record detailed information at each production stage, including raw material usage, processing times, quality checks, and assembly steps. This data helps in identifying bottlenecks and areas for improvement.
  4. Regular Audits and Inspections: Conduct routine audits and inspections to verify that processes are being followed correctly and to ensure that products meet quality standards.
  5. Employee Training: Train staff on the importance of data entry and accurate reporting. Proper training ensures that the tracking system is used effectively and consistently.

By combining these methods, manufacturers can maintain a clear and accurate view of their production processes, leading to improved efficiency, quality, and overall performance.

How to improve traceability?

Improving traceability involves several key steps. First, invest in advanced technologies like RFID, barcodes, and blockchain for real-time tracking. Integrate robust software systems, such as MES and ERP, to manage and analyse traceability data. Standardise procedures for data entry and reporting to ensure consistency. Enhance collaboration with supply chain partners to maintain transparency. Conduct regular audits to identify and address gaps. Train employees on the importance of traceability and the proper use of systems. Lastly, leverage data analytics to optimize processes and predict issues. These steps collectively enhance  traceability, improving efficiency, quality control, and compliance.

Utilize Traceability Software

Employ traceability software to centralise and manage data across the supply chain. This software integrates with existing systems to provide real-time visibility into product movements, processing stages, and inventory levels. By offering detailed tracking and reporting, traceability software enhances accuracy, facilitates compliance, and improves decision-making.

Enact Supplier Traceability Controls

Establish strict traceability controls with suppliers to ensure that every component and raw material meets quality and safety standards. Require suppliers to provide detailed documentation and records of their products. Implement regular audits and compliance checks to maintain transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.

Implement Barcoding

Adopt barcoding to streamline product identification and tracking. Barcodes encode essential product information, which can be quickly scanned and recorded at various stages of the supply chain. This method improves accuracy, reduces manual data entry errors, and enhances the efficiency of inventory management and quality control processes.

Incorporate RFID Technology

Integrate RFID technology to enable real-time, automated tracking of products and components. RFID tags store detailed information about each item, which can be read without direct line-of-sight, offering enhanced visibility and accuracy. This technology supports efficient inventory management, reduces errors, and provides comprehensive data for traceability.

Provide Employee Training

Ensure employees are well-trained on traceability systems and processes. Training should cover the use of traceability software, barcoding, RFID technology, and the importance of accurate data entry. Regular training updates help maintain high standards and ensure that staff are equipped to manage traceability effectively.

Incorporate Lean Manufacturing Processes

Adopt lean manufacturing processes to optimize production efficiency and minimize waste. Lean principles, such as continuous improvement and just-in-time production, complement traceability efforts by enhancing process visibility and reducing unnecessary steps. This integration leads to more efficient operations and better traceability outcomes.

Reducing Costs through Efficiency

Reducing costs through efficiency involves optimising operations to eliminate waste and streamline processes. By implementing lean manufacturing principles, businesses can minimise excess inventory, reduce production time, and lower labour costs. Technologies such as automation and advanced data analytics further enhance efficiency by improving accuracy, reducing manual errors, and speeding up workflows. Efficient supply chain management and process improvements also help in cutting operational expenses and lowering overhead costs. These practices lead to higher productivity, faster time-to-market, and better resource utilisation, ultimately driving down costs while maintaining or improving product quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is the Main Objective of Product Traceability?

The main objective of product traceability is to monitor and document the journey of products from raw material to end consumer. This includes tracking each stage of production, handling, and distribution. Traceability helps ensure quality control, compliance with regulations, and efficient management of recalls or quality issues, ultimately enhancing transparency and accountability in the supply chain.

2. Why Is Traceability Important, Especially for the Consumer?

Traceability is crucial for consumers as it provides transparency about the origin and handling of products. It helps ensure that products are safe, authentic, and meet quality standards. In case of a recall or safety issue, traceability enables quick identification and removal of affected items, protecting consumers from potential harm and building trust in the brand.

3. Can Product Traceability Help in Reducing Costs Within the Supply Chain?

Yes, product traceability can reduce costs by improving supply chain efficiency. It helps minimise waste, prevent counterfeiting, and reduce the scope and impact of recalls. By streamlining inventory management and enhancing process visibility, traceability supports better decision-making and operational efficiency, leading to overall cost savings.

4. What Technologies Are Commonly Used for Product Traceability?

Common technologies for product traceability include RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), barcodes, QR codes, and blockchain. RFID and barcodes facilitate automated tracking and data collection, while QR codes provide detailed product information accessible via smartphones. Blockchain offers secure and transparent data recording, enhancing traceability across the supply chain.

5. Is Product Traceability Applicable to All Industries?

Yes, product traceability is applicable to all industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and retail. Each industry uses traceability to ensure product quality, safety, and compliance with regulations. While the specific requirements and technologies may vary, the fundamental goal of traceability—improving transparency and accountability—is universal.

6. What Types of Data Are Typically Tracked Through Product Traceability Systems?

Product traceability systems typically track data such as raw material sources, production processes, quality control results, handling and storage conditions, distribution routes, and final destination. This information provides a comprehensive view of the product’s journey and helps in managing quality, compliance, and supply chain efficiency.

7. How Does Product Traceability Help in Maintaining Product Quality and Safety?

Product traceability helps maintain quality and safety by providing detailed records of each stage in the production and distribution process. This allows for quick identification and correction of issues, such as defects or contamination. Traceability also supports rigorous quality control and compliance with safety standards, ensuring that products meet required specifications and are safe for consumers.

8. What Are the Regulatory Requirements Related to Product Traceability?

Regulatory requirements for product traceability vary by industry and region but generally include the need to maintain detailed records of product origin, production processes, and distribution. Regulations often require businesses to have systems in place for tracking and managing product information, reporting issues, and facilitating recalls. Compliance with these requirements helps ensure product safety and quality, and avoids legal and financial penalties.

What is a 13-Digit GTIN Number and Why Is It Important for a Retail Product?

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) can be used by a company to uniquely identify all of its trade items. GS1 defines trade items as products or services that are priced, ordered or invoiced at any point in the supply chain.

If you’re planning to sell your products in a retail market and want to ensure its effective movement in the supply chain, you need to have a 13-digit GTIN number encoded in the barcode of your product.

Let’s understand what GTIN is and why it is important for your products.

What is GTIN and Why is it important for your products?

Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) is an internationally recognized code to identify trade items that uniquely identify products globally and fetch accurate and efficient product information when scanned at the billing counters in a store or at a warehouse when receiving goods.

GTINs are also used in pharmaceutical drugs, where they are scanned while administering medication in a hospital to enhance patient safety or scanned while effecting receiving or dispatches at hospital store to maintain inventory, ensure faster processing.

Most commonly used GTINs are 13 digits code, known also as EAN code. Also, there are several different types of GTINs used on products. This includes:

  • GTIN 12: The GTIN-12 is encoded in UPC barcodes, which are predominantly used only in America and Canada. However, North American and Canadian companies have steadily been updating retail Point-of-Sale systems to be able to scan GTIN-13 and GTIN-8. If your trading partner still cannot scan these numbers, only then you will need to use a GTIN-12.

  • GTIN 13: European Article Number (EAN); 13 digit code used in the rest of the world including India. GTIN 13 (barcode number) in India starts with 890.

  • GTIN 8: Allows a smaller barcode to be used on smaller retail trade items.

  • GTIN 14: Used on general distribution trade items, not intended to be sold at the Point-of-Sale.

All GTINs, irrespective of their different digits or codes, have a similar structure under which each GTIN digit is made up of 4 components. The first component is Country Code which varies from country to country; the second part is Company Prefix, the length of which is functioned according to the company’s coding needs; the third component is Product Code, which is assigned by the brand owner to uniquely identify the product and the fourth component of GTIN is Check Digit, which is based on the previous digits and ensures that the GTIN is constructed properly.

Where are GTINs used? 

GTINs are used in various aspects, especially where a product needs identification. That also includes IT systems, physical entities, etc. GS1 Standards define how to format and structure the GTIN in various applications so that the same GTIN can be used to identify the product for any of those needs.

  • Physical products: GTINs can be encoded into both barcodes and RFID tags along with the serial number and affixed to products to facilitate accurate identification as products move along with the supply chain.

  • Business transactions: GTIN can be used in e-commerce business transactions in order to reduce errors and boost machine-to-machine processing.

  • Internet applications: They can be represented as a Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) using GS1 Digital Link to support internet-based applications. 

  • Databases & IT systems: GTIN can provide each product an identifier that can be used in systems like inventory management, logistics, etc, that helps to maintain the connection between the systems to enhance the quality and amount of data.

Benefits of labelling your product

By identifying your products with a GTIN number, you can:

- Gain increased visibility of your product pages in Google searches

GTIN numbers when also used in product pages help you achieve better SEO results by improving the visibility of your product pages in Google search results.

According to Google, database sheets with GTIN codes are classified at a 40 percent higher click rate and earn 20 percent more sales.

- Free barcode management through DataKart service

With a GTIN number on the product, you can easily assign and manage your GTIN numbers through free access to GS1 India’s DataKart service. It will allow brand owners to upload product information from a one centralized location and its advanced features enable sharing the product data with multiple suppliers in one go in their respective native file formats/structures.

- Facilitate exports of your product worldwide

As GTIN numbers are internationally recognized, you can easily export your products across the globe with GTIN numbers, eliminating the need to identify your products differently for export purposes.

GTIN Structure

GTIN Structure includes a string of digits, it can be 8,12,13, or 14 digits in length to accommodate different product limitations. Depending on the length these structures are known as GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, and GTIN-14. The GTIN usually has the following elements:

  • Indicator Digit: Indicator Digit is a number that ranges from 1-8, that is used to identify packaging levels/hierarchy of a product.

  • GS1 Company Prefix: A globally unique number assigned to a company by a GS1 Member organisation in order to generate GS1 Identification keys like GTINs.

  • Item Reference: An Item Reference number, that has no logical explanation, it is just a number assigned by the user itself to identify a trade item. It’s length is based on GS1 company Prefix Length.

  • Check digit: The Check Digit is the last or final digit calculated from the preceding digits of the GTIN number. This digit is extremely important as this is used to check that the data is correctly collected.

GS1 and GTIN

If you want your product to be recognized in the marketplace, you need to have a GTIN code on the back of it, encoded in a barcode/RFID. GS1 – the global supply chain standards organisation, provides unique and universal identification to products through GTIN.

GTINs can also be used to uniquely identify products at different packaging levels; for instance- at the customer unit level, at the inner pack of the product, and at the carton/pallet.

After realizing the importance of GTINs in the supply chain, mostly all the brand owners are now labelling GTINs on their products to boost their visibility in the marketplace so that they can sell their products on various platforms.

Connect with GS1 India and reap all the benefits of GTIN number.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get a GTIN code?

If you want to sell your products on any e-commerce platform site, then you would have to register your business at GS1 India's official website for the allocation of GTINs. These are generated through their single repository for data of all the products in India - Datakart. This platform enables the online generation of GTINs and the management of all the product information at one place.

2. Is the GTIN code the same as the UPC?

A GTIN code and UPC are not the same in their structure. A GTIN code can have 8,12,13, or 14 digits, while a UPC can only have 12 digits. Another difference between these two is the fact that GTIN codes can be used globally, while UPCs can only be used in North America.

3. What is a 14-digit GTIN barcode?

GTIN-14 is a 14 digit number used to allocate trade items at different packaging levels. The encoding of barcodes of the GTIN-14 basically happens within an ITF-14 barcode, but various industries and applications use GS1-128 to encode GTIN-14s.

4. How do I find my GTIN number for my product?

GTIN also known as Global Trade Item Numbers (GTIN) are used to identify every product sold on any e-commerce site. GTIN is a universal identifier that is found on the product's cover or packaging, either above or below the bar code.

5. Is GTIN different from barcode?

GTIN is a unique identifier number that is used in a barcode. It is the numerical form data, and the UPCs or EANs are the barcode images that contain the GTIN.

6. What is the difference between SKU, EAN and GTIN?

The SKUs are in the form of a series of numbers and letters that can change depending on the inventory of the product in a specific business. EAN is an international identifier in the form of a barcode image that has been involved in the GTIN system.

Demand for Local Products Expected to Rise With PM’s Appeal ‘Vocal for Local’

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Two weeks back, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged the citizens of India to buy local products and be a part of India’s growth story. He also appealed SMEs’, start-ups and entrepreneurs’ to make the nation independent and self-reliant by making as many local goods as possible to remove dependence on imported goods. This would also support the country’s economy, which is hit by a prolonged phase of lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He highlighted that the coronavirus outbreak has made us realize the importance of local manufacturing, local market, and the need to make our supply chains efficient & sustained.

“In times of crisis, this local has fulfilled our demand, this local has saved us. Local is not just the need, it is our responsibility also,” he said in his speech to the nation.

However, local does not only mean products made by Indian companies, but also those manufactured in India by multinational companies or MNCs.

The ongoing health crisis has given an impetus to the sales of local products, as they inspire consumer confidence.

The moment the pandemic hit the nation, not even a single PPE kit was manufactured in India, only a few N95 masks were available. However, with our exceptional local manufacturing capabilities, we are able to produce close to two lakh PPE kits and two lakh N95 masks on a daily basis.

Also, as per news reports, India is the world’s number 2 in its masks making capacity and is planning to export as well.

This offers an opportune time for SMEs / start-ups to make their local products and get them recognized in the marketplace with the use of India barcodes, starting with 890.

890 barcode numbers identify your products on a globally unambiguous way, ensuring that no other product across the world will have this number in an authorised manner. This is because these numbers are developed and maintained by a global supply chain standards organisation – GS1. In India, GS1 India is the only authorised body to allocate GS1 barcode numbers, starting with 890, to companies based in India.

Not only these barcode numbers ensure that the company manufacturing these products is based in India but also help manufacturers in selling them through retail chains and online marketplaces.

In these difficult times, it is critical for manufacturers of local products to speak the global language of business and be visible on several sales (retail) platforms that are being used by consumers to fulfil their daily needs.

Additionally, the use of 890 barcode numbers facilitate counterfeit detection in the supply chain at its point of entry and enable manufacturers to investigate and deal with the counterfeit sources.

Summary of benefits accrued by labeling your products with ‘890’ barcodes:

Unique identification of your products

  • Ability to sell products through leading retailers and online shopping channels ● Free access to online tool (DataKart) for easy generation, management and allocation of barcode numbers.
  • Counterfeit detection in the supply chain
  • Retailers and online marketplaces can easily validate the barcode numbers used by you
  • Increased visibility of product pages in Google searches

In order to be vocal about local products, use 890 barcodes on your products and popularise the fact that these barcode numbers mean that the products are manufactured in India.

To know more about 890 barcode numbers, visit: https://www.gs1india.org/content/register-for-barcodes/

How Spot Authentication Helps New-Age Consumers

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Today, consumers have become much more aware of what they are buying and consuming. Consumers like to authenticate every single product they are buying and verify its origin, its quality licenses, its allergen information to ascertain whether the product is safe to consume and worth paying for. To ensure this, the only option that was earlier available to a consumer was to read the product information on the label and believe it. But as consumers are getting smarter in their way of shopping, technological advancements cater to their growing need for product information and verification.

Since supply chain data is only accessible by brand owners and other key stakeholders, consumers do not usually get to know if the information printed on the label is accurate or not. This is where Spot Authentication becomes important.

What is Spot Authentication?

As the name suggests, Spot Authentication means that consumers can get accurate information about a product to validate the label information. This can be done by scanning the product barcode on the label through Smart Consumer mobile app. The information consumers get via scanning the barcode is uploaded directly by brand owners, hence, highly accurate and reliable. This also include expiry date of certifications of issued by FSSAI and AGMARK,

How does Smart Consumer mobile app help consumers in authenticating product information?

Spot Authentication has been made accessible to consumers in India through Smart Consumer mobile app that is powered by GS1 India’s DataKart – the national repository of information on retailed products and their attributes. DataKart carries details of various attributes of a product, such as its net weight, license numbers and their validity, MRP, product pack dimensions, consumer care details, etc. With the help Smart Consumer mobile app, a consumer can quickly scan the barcode printed on the product label/package and get access to trusted information provided by the brand owner.

Also, brand owners can enables their consumers to validate each SKU by making them uniquely. For example, in case of any particular brand of strawberry jam, if there is a serial number at the bottom of the strawberry jam jar, and it is supposed to be sold at a particular outlet. Smart Consumer app can help consumers verify if that jar is authorized to be sold in that outlet or not. Want to understand how Smart Consumer mobile app works? Watch this video.

Why is Traceability Important for Consumer Safety?

Posted on by Nitesh Agrawal

Overview:

Traceability ensures the tracking and verification of history, location and handling of products throughout the supply chain, which makes it a very essential part for consumer safety.  This transparency helps identify and address issues quickly, prevents counterfeit products, ensures compliance with safety standards, and enhances consumer trust by guaranteeing product authenticity and quality.

Why is traceability important in the supply chain?

Traceability is crucial in the supply chain for several reasons:

Product Quality Control

It ensures that products meet quality standards by allowing businesses to track and monitor every stage of production. This helps in identifying and addressing defects or issues promptly, ensuring only high-quality products reach consumers.

Compliance with Regulations

Traceability helps companies comply with regulatory requirements by providing detailed records of product origins, manufacturing processes, and distribution channels. This is essential for industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and electronics, where strict regulations are in place.

Supply Chain Visibility

Enhanced visibility across the supply chain allows for better inventory management, efficient recall processes, and reduced operational costs. It helps in identifying bottlenecks and optimizing the flow of goods.

Brand Protection

By ensuring product authenticity and preventing counterfeit goods from entering the market, traceability protects a brand’s reputation. It helps build consumer trust and loyalty by guaranteeing that products are genuine and safe.

Sustainability

Traceability supports sustainable practices by enabling companies to track the environmental impact of their products. It allows businesses to ensure that their supply chain adheres to ethical standards, such as fair labor practices and eco-friendly sourcing.

Product Traceability in Manufacturing Supply Chains

Product traceability is the process of identifying and tracking products through a supply chain. It involves logging manufacturing information in a database and monitoring products at every step. This detailed tracking minimizes the cost of product recalls, combats counterfeiting, ensures quality control, and optimizes production processes. By providing visibility and accountability throughout the supply chain, traceability enhances efficiency and consumer safety, while supporting compliance with regulatory standards and sustainable practices.

Importance of Traceability in Food Safety

Traceability in food safety is essential for ensuring the health and well-being of consumers. It allows for the precise tracking of food products from farm to table, providing detailed information about their origin, processing, and distribution. This transparency is crucial for quickly identifying and addressing potential contamination or safety issues, minimizing the impact of foodborne illnesses.

In the event of a recall, traceability enables swift and targeted actions, reducing the cost and scope of recalls and protecting consumers from harm. It also helps in combating food fraud and counterfeiting by verifying the authenticity and quality of food products. Moreover, compliance with stringent regulatory standards is facilitated through traceability, ensuring that food products meet safety and quality requirements.

Overall, traceability not only enhances food safety but also builds consumer trust by guaranteeing the integrity and reliability of the food supply chain.

Building consumer trust through traceability

Traceability plays a crucial role in building consumer trust by providing transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain. When consumers can track the origin and journey of the products they purchase, they gain confidence in the quality and safety of those products. This transparency reassures them that the products meet regulatory standards and ethical practices.

For instance, in the food industry, traceability ensures that consumers are aware of where their food comes from, how it was processed, and whether it meets safety and quality standards. This knowledge helps to prevent food fraud and ensures that only safe, high-quality products reach the market.

Additionally, in the event of a product recall, traceability allows for quick and efficient action, demonstrating a company’s commitment to consumer safety. By providing detailed information about product origins and manufacturing processes, businesses can enhance their reputation, foster loyalty, and build lasting consumer trust.

How to Implement Traceability in Supply Chain Management?

To effectively implement traceability in supply chain management, follow these steps:

  • Identify the Data to be Tracked: Determine which data points are crucial for tracking products, such as origins, production details, handling processes, and distribution channels.
  • Invest in Technology: Choose appropriate technologies, such as RFID, barcodes, or QR codes, that enable efficient tracking and data collection throughout the supply chain.
  • Develop Data Management Systems: Implement robust systems for storing and managing traceability data. Ensure these systems are capable of integrating with existing supply chain management software.
  • Implement Standard Operating Procedures: Establish and enforce procedures for data entry, tracking, and reporting to ensure consistency and accuracy.
  • Train Employees: Educate staff on the importance of traceability and how to use the new systems and procedures effectively. Regular training ensures adherence and proper utilization of traceability practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Traceability in Logistics? 

Traceability in logistics refers to the ability to track and trace the movement and handling of goods throughout the supply chain. It involves recording data at each stage, from production and warehousing to distribution and delivery. This ensures that companies can monitor the path of products, manage inventory efficiently, and address any issues that arise during transit.

2. How Can Traceability be Improved in the Supply Chain? 

Traceability can be improved by investing in advanced technologies like RFID, barcodes, or QR codes, and integrating them into data management systems. Establishing clear standard operating procedures for data recording and monitoring, and providing regular training for employees on these processes, also enhance traceability. Additionally, leveraging real-time data analytics can offer better visibility and insights into the supply chain.

3. How does traceability contribute to improving product quality?

Traceability contributes to product quality by enabling the monitoring of each stage of production and handling. This allows for the identification of quality issues early in the process, ensuring that products meet established standards before reaching consumers. It also helps in analyzing trends and patterns to implement corrective measures and prevent future quality problems.

4. What role does traceability play in ensuring food safety?

Traceability is critical for food safety as it allows for the tracking of food products from their origin through to consumption. This transparency helps in quickly identifying the source of contamination during a food safety incident, managing recalls effectively, and ensuring that all safety and regulatory standards are met, thereby protecting consumers from potential harm.

5. How does traceability help in identifying and managing product recalls? 

Traceability helps in managing product recalls by providing detailed information on the product’s journey through the supply chain. This enables businesses to quickly locate and remove affected products from the market, minimize the impact of the recall, and address any issues promptly. Effective traceability ensures that recalls are targeted and efficient, reducing the risk to consumers and the costs associated with broad-scale recalls.

6. Can traceability be applied to both raw materials and finished products?

Yes, traceability can be applied to both raw materials and finished products. Tracking raw materials ensures that the components used in production meet quality and safety standards, while tracking finished products allows for monitoring through distribution and sales. This comprehensive traceability provides a complete view of the supply chain, ensuring quality and compliance at every stage.

7. What are the costs involved in implementing traceability systems? 

The costs of implementing traceability systems include expenses for technology (such as RFID tags, scanners, and software), system integration, data management, and ongoing maintenance. Additional costs may involve employee training and system upgrades. However, these costs can be offset by the benefits of improved efficiency, reduced risk of recalls, and enhanced customer trust.

8. How can small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) benefit from traceability? 

SMEs can benefit from traceability by gaining better control over their supply chain, improving product quality, and enhancing compliance with regulatory requirements. Traceability helps in identifying inefficiencies and potential issues early, which can lead to cost savings and better customer satisfaction. It also supports scalability and competitiveness by providing a framework for growth and innovation.

9. What steps can companies take to ensure the accuracy and reliability of traceability data? 

Companies can ensure the accuracy and reliability of traceability data by implementing robust data management systems, conducting regular audits, and maintaining clear standard operating procedures. Training employees on proper data entry and handling is crucial. Additionally, integrating real-time data collection technologies and conducting periodic system evaluations can help maintain data integrity and reliability.

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