Today, the safety and tracking of cosmetic products is of great importance. Batch number and expiry date coding is necessary for cosmetic products to prevent health risks for consumers and for manufacturers to comply with legal regulations. In this article, we will discuss coding methods, advantages and legal requirements for cosmetic products.
What is the Batch Number for Cosmetic Products?
A batch number is a unique code that identifies which production batch a cosmetic product originated from. Manufacturers use this number to ensure quality control during the production process and to keep track of products in case of any possible recall. The batch number is usually found on the bottom of the packaging, on the bottle or on the label.
Advantages of the party number:
- Facilitates product recall processes.
- Detection of counterfeit products.
- Improves quality control processes.
- Increases customer trust.
Expiration Date Encoding and its Importance
The expiry date is the date that marks the end of the period during which a cosmetic product can be safely used. It is usually indicated with “EXP” or “Use by”. In the European Union and many other countries, expiration dates are mandatory for products with a shelf life of less than 30 months.
The importance of expiration date coding:
- Protects users from skin irritation and allergic reactions.
- Ensures that product efficacy is guaranteed.
- Facilitates compliance with legislation.
Coding Methods
Coding methods used in the cosmetics industry can vary depending on the product packaging, production line and legislation. Here are the most commonly used coding methods:
1. Inkjet Coding (Inkjet Printing)
Inkjet printers code quickly and efficiently on moving production lines. They can be applied to different surfaces such as plastic, glass, metal and cardboard.
Advantages:
- Fast and cost-effective.
- Can be applied on different surfaces.
- It can print in high resolution.
2. Laser Coding
Laser coding is a permanent and erasure-resistant coding method. It is environmentally friendly as it does not require the use of chemicals.
Advantages:
- It is permanent and indelible.
- No chemical consumption.
- Environmentally friendly.
3. Thermal Transfer Coding (TTO – Thermal Transfer Overprinting)
This method offers high-quality prints that can be applied to flexible packaging materials. It is commonly used on foil, plastic and paper packaging.
Advantages:
- High quality and clear printing.
- Color printing option is available.
- Suitable for fast production lines.
Coding Regulations for Cosmetic Products
The coding of cosmetic products is subject to many international regulations. In the European Union (EC), Cosmetic Regulation ( EC) No. 1223/2009 requires compliance with certain requirements. In the US, there are regulations set by the FDA.
The regulatory requirements are:
- Clear indication of the batch number on the packaging.
- For products with a shelf life of less than 30 months, write the expiration date.
- The codes must be legible and indelible.
Batch number and expiry date coding in cosmetic products is of vital importance for manufacturers and consumers. By choosing appropriate coding methods, manufacturers can comply with legislation and increase consumer confidence. Consumers can protect themselves from health risks by checking the codes before using the products.
