GS1 DataBar is a family of barcodes that can encode a GTIN plus additional data (lot number, expiry date, weight, price) in a smaller footprint than traditional UPC/EAN barcodes. GS1 DataBar is widely used for fresh produce, meat, and other variable-weight food products.
DataBar Variants
The GS1 DataBar family includes: DataBar Omnidirectional (replaces UPC-A for POS scanning); DataBar Expanded (encodes GTIN plus additional AIs); DataBar Stacked (two-row version for space-constrained labels); and DataBar Limited (for items not sold at POS). DataBar Expanded is the most relevant for food traceability as it can encode lot number and expiry date alongside the GTIN.
FSMA 204 and GS1 DataBar
FSMA 204 requires a Traceability Lot Code (TLC) to be maintained for foods on the Food Traceability List. GS1 DataBar Expanded can encode the TLC (as a batch/lot number using AI 10) along with the GTIN (AI 01) and expiry date (AI 17) in a single barcode. This makes GS1 DataBar Expanded a natural choice for FSMA 204 compliance in fresh produce supply chains.