What Are QR Codes?
QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store a wide range of information.
They were initially developed in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso Wave for tracking automobile parts. QR codes can be scanned using a smartphone, leading users to text, a website, or other types of digital content.
When Were They Introduced for Food Labels?
QR codes started appearing on food labels more prominently in the late 2010s. Their integration into the food industry was primarily driven by the need for transparency and the growing consumer demand for detailed information about the products they consume.
Why Are They Used on Food Labels?
Information Accessibility: QR codes make it easy for consumers, including visually impaired individuals, to access comprehensive information about a product.
Consumer Engagement: They offer an interactive experience, enhancing brand image and customer loyalty.
Operational Efficiency: For manufacturers, QR codes simplify the supply chain and inventory management processes.
Advisory from Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
FSSAI has issued an advisory recommending the inclusion of QR codes on food packaging. The QR codes should contain essential details about the product,
such as ingredients, nutritional information, and allergens. This initiative aligns with FSSAI's Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Global Trends
Countries like the U.S., India, France, and the U.K. are among the leading adopters of QR codes on food labels. A recent survey indicated that 57% of respondents had scanned a food QR code to obtain product information, highlighting the technology's growing importance.
By adding QR codes to food labels, both consumers and manufacturers stand to benefit from increased transparency, improved consumer engagement, and operational efficiencies.
