Applications of food packaging quick response codes in information transmission toward food supply chain integrity

Abstract

BackgroundManufacturers and consumers are increasingly aware that asymmetric information can lead to potential risks in food safety and supply chain integrity. The traditional paper labels, due to their limited size, are no longer able to realize the transmission of a large amount of information. Quick Response (QR) code, as one of the most versatile and commercially successful digital technologies, provides a feasible approach to connecting physical food with its relevant digital information, and its potential in information transmission has been gradually discovered and exploited in recent years – attracting increasing attention. Scope and approachIn this review, a brief overview of the QR code configuration and technical principle of information transmission is provided, along with comparisons to other digital technologies. Moreover, it provides a useful overview of the current applications of QR codes developed and practiced in information transmission. On this basis, the limitations and development direction for improving its properties are discussed. Key findings and conclusionsFood packaging QR codes are suitable for information transmission due to their large data storage and quick information access. QR codes have good performance in traceability, quality evaluation, anti-counterfeiting, and marketing. Given its limitations, the flexible combination with other complementary technologies, improving the consumers’ sense of gratification after use, and forcing and encouraging companies to implement are the possible development directions of maximizing QR code utilization in the future within the food supply chain.