New smartphone app diminishes need for food product label space
While food ministers in the UK continue to debate the pros and cons of Traffic Light labelling and Daily Intake Guides, some of the arguments regarding food product labelling may soon be superfluous in light of new technology developed in Australia.
A new iPhone app, due to be launched in September 2012, enables consumers to scan the bar code on a product and receive comprehensive product data within seconds.
The GS1 GoScan app is has been developed by supply chain efficiency organisation GS1 Australia in collaboration with industry stakeholders including major retailers, food companies, the Australian Food and Grocery Council, Australian universities and several national health organisations.
The new app enables consumers to scan the bar code on a food product and receive comprehensive product data, including allergen information, ingredient lists, nutritional content, Daily Intake information, dietary information (such as Kosher, Halal, vegan, organic), as well as preparation, usage and storage instructions, country of origin, product descriptions and images.
GS1 Australia’s CEO Maria Palazzolo said, “We implore companies – from brand owners and manufacturers right through to retailers and wholesalers – to get on board the latest initiative to drive better availability of trusted product information for consumers.
“Brand owners can be sure that consumers will be accessing up-to-date and accurate information about their products – thereby building brand trust and loyalty,” she said.
The technology has the potential to diminsh space required for mandatory information on food product labels.
