Barcode solution to nutrition info

Grocer, Nov 22, 2008 by Gary Lynch

Sir, I read with interest 'Consumer giants cry foul over EU label laws' (thegrocer.co.uk, 7 Nov).

While we applaud the EU's attempts to provide the consumer with additional nutritional information, we also understand the concerns among manufacturers. There needs to be a realistic balance between providing clear and accurate information and ensuring brands are still recognisable.

Manufacturers will not sacrifice their corporate identity to comply with the ruling and may be forced to increase the size of their packaging to include larger food labels. This, in turn, could lead to an increase in packaging waste, which would be a huge step backwards.

We would urge both the EU and manufacturers to consider alternatives. The GS1 DataBar, for example, is an alternative to the traditional barcode. Its smaller size takes up less space on packs, giving suppliers more space for branding and nutritional information.

Another option would be to embrace future mobile scanning technology, as manufacturers will soon be able to provide customers with product information, including additional health and nutrition information, simply with a barcode they can scan with a mobile phone. This technology will not disrupt existing labelling requirements.

Gary Lynch, chief executive, GS1 UK