Product traceability ensures that the flow of goods is continuously monitored from the production, processing, and distribution. In the case of food manufacturing, you’ll get the assurance that products will be located at any stage within the supply chain.

Traceability is an important aspect especially in the food industry where there is a need to trace and track the products. Learn more about its importance, as well as how you can improve your systems through this article.

The Importance of Product Traceability

Product traceability plays an important role in ensuring food safety. It helps maintain sound and integrated systems. Through traceability, it is easier to control day to day operations. It also makes it easier to solve issues related to safety and contamination.

With product traceability, important data about products are made available so you can easily access the following:

Origin
Packaging date
Shelf-life

These are some of the valuable information that communicates the safety and longevity of the product. In case of a product recall, it is also easier to track products based on their barcodes, batch numbers and other markings that manufacturers may use as references to locate the goods that have been compromised.

However, it is not all about making valuable data available. You also have to ensure the quality of the prints or markings for them to effectively serve their purpose. This is where industrial-grade coding equipment comes in.

Improve Product Traceability Using the Right Coding Equipment

High-quality coding equipment is needed to ensure accuracy in the printing of codes. You also need a machine that can guarantee the proper application of machine-scannable codes.

Aside from its role in product traceability, the right coding equipment will also impact your productivity.

Mark products at high speed
Streamline the creation of labels
Prevent downtime

Here are some of the top choices when it comes to finding coding equipment that meets product traceability requirements:

Continuous Inkjet Printer

CIJ can print at a high speed without interruption. This type of printer can detect if a substrate is passing by on an assembly line and can create sharp and long-lasting code in a controlled manner. CIJ printers are suitable to be used for the packaging of food and beverages.

Thermal Inkjet Printer

TIJ printers are lightweight and compact versions of coding equipment such as the CIJ. It is highly portable and can be integrated into existing line setups easily. While small in size, TIJ printers don’t fall short in delivering quality results. Depending on the model, they can print at high-speed and produce high-resolution codes.

Print and Apply System

Print and apply machines allows a simple application process. It also eliminates errors normally caused by humans. These machines are user-friendly and robust to offer time-saving technical solutions that guarantee high-quality results. Print and apply machines can be used for primary food packaging, shipping cartons, and large pallets.

ALSO READ: Understanding the Different Types of Manufacturing Date Codes

Product traceability can help improve productivity and streamline your processes. If you are a manufacturer who’s looking for highly reliable coding equipment, check out the products offered by Elixir. Trusted by top industry brands, we can provide you with a machine that matches the unique traceability requirements in the food industry.