How to Use GS1 QR Code to Track Produce and Livestock

What is GS1 QR code and its role in tracking and producing?

GS1 is a global system of standards that offers services to make adopting standards easier. GS1 2D barcodes that comply with the standard set by the organization. They contain all the unique product data stored in a 2D barcode in compliance with the global standard. 

By displaying these codes in your product, you ensure data consistency throughout the supply chain and give your business global recognition. GS1 barcodes play an important role in storing vital information. The main components of information include:

GS1 identification number

This unique identifier tracks specific items throughout the supply chain, from creation to distribution until it reaches store shelves.

Origin information

It is the vital details about where the product came from. It could be the name of the farm, ranch, or processing facility where the produce or livestock originated. 

Lot or batch number

The lot or batch number helps identify specific batches of produce or livestock. The number is beneficial when there is a need for targeted recalls.

Expiration date

The GS1 QR code for detailed product information may include the product's expiration date so consumers can check its freshness. This helps your business avoid selling products that are no longer safe to consume. 

How do GS1 barcode works in tracking foods?

Each product gets a special GS1 barcode. When someone scans the code, they can see details about the product. This might include information about the product's origin, when it was made, or how long it will stay good. 

People in the food industry, like farmers and store owners, also scan the barcodes to track the food. This helps them know where everything is and ensures it's handled correctly.

Why tracking produce and livestock matters?

GS1 digital link QR codes are an excellent tool for tracking produce and livestock. Here are some reasons why:

Mobile-friendly 

You can read the GS1 digital link QR code without a special scanner using your smartphone camera. Just scan the code once to access the information.

Cost-effective

GS1 QR codes to track produce and livestock are cost-effective and intelligent tech tools. They fit into any budget and are easy to use. Adding QR codes to your system saves money and improves productivity while allowing you to track your product accurately. 

Speed

GS1 digital link QR codes are incredibly fast. They allow you to share information quickly and give instant access to details. Scan them with a smartphone camera, and you're ready to share quickly.

Customizable

GS1 2D barcodes are no longer just black and white squares. You can customize codes with different colors, shapes, logos, and calls to action. This customization helps them match your brand and look more appealing.

Secure

QR codes are safe and secure to use. They protect your data and provide security. When it comes to safety, QR codes are a reliable choice.

Versatile

GS1 digital link QR codes can store more than just links. They can hold images, videos, audio, and documents. The dynamic QR codes option allows you to edit the information and track their uses, offering great flexibility.

Creative ways farmers and food producers use GS1 2D barcodes

Integrating GS1 2D barcodes into the food supply chain offers many benefits for both businesses and consumers:

Livestock tracking

GS1 2D barcode can help revolutionize livestock management. Integrating this technology into your processes improves how information is stored. This may include animal health records, breeding information, or vaccination dates. The code is then tagged on the animal to access its health history.

Streamlined supply chain operations

GS1 QR code for logistics and supply chain helps simplify supply chain operations. Farmers can attach QR codes to products, which distributors scan.

This provides real-time updates, improves coordination, and reduces errors or delays. Everyone involved gets easy access to accurate information, making the supply chain run smoothly.

More market opportunities

Indicating vital details of a product can be a big advantage in the competitive food industry. Consumers are interested in knowing when and where it was produced. With QR codes, farmers and producers can systematically share detailed product information. 

Scanning a GS1 barcode lets buyers see where the product came from and how it was produced. This can help open doors to new markets and attract customers looking for quick service and convenience. 

Better food safety

GS1 QR codes for food recalls ensure food safety by tracking products through the supply chain. If there's a food safety issue, these codes quickly show where the problem started. 

Scanning the GS1 QR code, you can identify and help fix issues faster. This helps keep consumers safe while protecting the producer's reputation.

Enhanced data collection and analysis

GS1 barcodes enable businesses to collect valuable data about the success of their products. You can use data from a GS1 barcode scan to learn about market trends and what consumers prefer. This data can help farmers decide how they farm and sell their products.

Save on costs

Track QR code technology provides businesses with cost-saving opportunities simply by digitizing various processes like managing inventory, product labeling, and supply chain tracking. 

Farmers can reduce paperwork, manual labor, and associated costs. It also improves overall operational productivity and minimizes the risk of human error.

Verify products 

Product counterfeiting has increased over the last few years. You can use GS1 digital link QR codes to authenticate products, helping producers combat counterfeit products and protect their brand reputation.

Ways retailers and distributors benefits from GS1 2D barcodes

For businesses in the retail industry, GS1 2D barcodes can be used to make processes easier and more functional. Here are some of the ways using the GS1 QR code to track produce and livestock can be beneficial:

Improved inventory 

GS1 2D barcodes can be used in inventory management to track stock levels and their movement in real-time. This helps improve inventory accuracy and reduce overstock or stock-out situations.

Faster product traceability

GS1 2D barcodes usually provide detailed information about each product's traceability. This includes information such as batch or lot numbers, serial numbers, and expiration dates, which are essential for tracking. 

If there's an issue, GS1 2D barcodes help enable swift and accurate product recalls if any safety concerns arise.

Reduce errors

Using GS1 QR codes to track produce and livestock minimizes human error. Scanning codes ensures accurate product information and reduces errors that can arise with manual data entry, making your processes more reliable and successful.

Provide valuable information

Customers like knowing the origin of food. With GS1 digital link QR codes, customers have detailed product information. Scanning a GS1 digital link QR code can show the product's origins, manufacturing processes, and how it reached the store. 

This transparency builds trust and enhances the shopping experience. The consumer no longer has to second-guess or research a product's possible ingredients. 

Enhancing customer engagement

Implementing GS1 digital link QR code can boost customer engagement and satisfaction. These codes offer convenience by enabling mobile payments and online shopping, which are becoming increasingly popular.

When customers see that they can easily pay or get more information with a quick scan, it enhances their overall experience, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business.

How to generate a GS1 QR code?

Are you looking for a GS1 QR code generator and creating a QR code for the first time? It's easier than you think! Here are simple steps:

• Go to the GS1 digital link QR code generator and click Register if you don't already have an account. 
• Fill out your primary identification key and use vital attributes (if necessary).
• Choose the type of QR code that aligns with your business and enter the required information.
• Generate your QR code; choose dynamic or static QR, then click generate QR code.
• You can customize your QR code by changing the colors, patterns, and eyes to your liking. You can also add a brand logo to boost recognition.
• Test scan your QR code to make sure that you have a fully functional QR code, then download and save it.

Get a GS1 digital link QR code for tracking produce and livestock

GS1 QR codes set a new benchmark in supply chain management, providing a digital solution to traditional farming challenges. Incorporating GS1 QR codes to track produce and livestock, you can optimize the productivity of your farm or business operations. 

Start using a GS1 2D barcode generator today to improve how you trace your produce and livestock. This technology helps you track your products, ensure food safety, and gain valuable insights into your operations.

Whether you're a farmer, distributor, or retailer, GS1 barcodes provide a cost-effective, customizable, and secure solution to simplify your processes and meet consumer demand for transparency.

DISCLAIMER: We acknowledge that GS1, as well as the materials, proprietary items, and all related patents, copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property (collectively, “intellectual property”) relating to its use, are the property of GS1 Global, and that our use of the same shall be in accordance with the conditions provided by GS1 Global.