Coding food packaging is a critical element to protect consumer health, ensure traceability and guarantee regulatory compliance. Coding systems must include important details such as expiration date, batch number, barcodes and other legal information. In this article, we will discuss food packaging coding standards and regulations.
Food Packaging Coding Standards
Food packaging coding standards have been established to ensure that consumers have access to accurate and reliable information. Coding standards consist of the following basic elements:
GS1 Standards: A global coding system, widely used for barcodes and QR codes.
ISO 22005: An international standard for food traceability.
FDA Coding Standards: Standards set by the US Food and Drug Administration that require the information on the package to be clear and legible.
EU 1169/2011: Legislation set by the European Union for food labeling and packaging.
TSE Standards: Coding rules set by TSE (Turkish Standards Institute) in Turkey.
Food Packaging Coding Regulations
There are national and international regulations on food packaging coding. These include the following:
1. Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Labeling and Informing Consumers
This regulation sets out the information rules on food packaging. The main elements that should be included on labels and coding are as follows:
Expiration date or recommended date of consumption
Batch and serial number
Content information
Net quantity
Storage conditions
Manufacturer and importer information
2. European Union Legislation (EU 1169/2011)
This law was introduced to ensure the readability and comprehensibility of information on food packages. It sets criteria such as mandatory information on food labels and the size of text on packaging.
3. US FDA Food Labeling and Coding Standards
Companies wishing to enter the US market must code in accordance with the rules set by the FDA. The batch number and expiry dates must be clearly, legibly and permanently displayed on the packaging.
4. GS1 Standards
GS1 is an international coding system and is used to ensure the readability of barcodes. This system improves food safety by providing traceability throughout the supply chain.
Food Packaging Coding Methods
Different technologies are used for coding food packaging. The most common methods are:
Inkjet Coding: Fast and cost-effective.
Laser Coding: Provides permanent and clear coding.
Thermal Transfer Coding (TTO): Used for high quality printing.
Labeling System: Enables data processing through barcodes and QR codes.
Food packaging coding standards and regulations are vital to protect consumer health and improve traceability. International standards such as GS1, ISO 22005, FDA and EU ensure that food manufacturers comply with legislation. Coding technologies support food safety by providing permanent and readable information on food packages.
