GS1 DataBar

The GS1 DataBar, formerly known as Reduced Space Symbology (RSS), is the latest development in space-constraints identification from GS1. The GS1 DataBar is a small size bar code symbology which is smaller than the linear EAN/UPC bar codes.

The GS1 DataBar still encodes the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) identification but it also can contain additional information of the product within the bar code, such as, serial numbers, batch numbers and expiration dates. The principle use of GS1 DataBar will be to identify products that cannot be marked with the current linear bar codes because of space constraints. GS1 DataBar is a simple solution for trading partners who look for more advanced information about the product.

The GS1 DataBar still encodes the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) identification but it also can contain additional information of the product within the bar code, such as, serial numbers, batch numbers and expiration dates. The principle use of GS1 DataBar will be to identify products that cannot be marked with the current linear bar codes because of space constraints. GS1 DataBar is a simple solution for trading partners who look for more advanced information about the product.

GS1 DataBar will benefit the fresh food produce sector as it can be fitted onto small labels and applied to individual fruits or vegetable, for example, an apple or an orange. This will allow each piece of fruit to be identified by its type and supplier in the same way that a can of soup is identified.

The healthcare industry has numerous pharmaceutical products that are physically too small to have the EAN-13 or the EAN-8 bar codes symbology marked onto the packaging. With GS1 DataBar, medical supplies can have additional information like expiry date marked onto the packaging. Monitoring of expiration date will allow companies to have efficient management of inventory and cost savings due to minimisation of wastage of expired or unsold medication.

Though the GS1 DataBar is a breakthrough in technology, it will not replace the linear bar codes that are being used world wide as it will be left to the brand owner of the product to decide. If no new data is required and the package has adequate space for the EAN/UCCC bar codes, then there is no need to change the bar code on it.

More information on GS1 DataBar can be found here