For companies operating in the food industry, product traceability, regulatory compliance, and brand protection are critically important. At this point, coding and marking systems play a key role by ensuring that information such as expiration date (EXP), production date, batch/lot number, barcode, and DataMatrix codes are printed accurately and permanently on product packaging.

So, which coding system is the right choice for the food industry? Inkjet or laser? In this article, we cover all the details.

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Why Is Coding So Important in the Food Industry?

Coding systems in food production are not just a “labeling” tool. They also:

• ✅ Ensure compliance with legal regulations
• ✅ Facilitate product recall processes
• ✅ Help prevent counterfeit products
• ✅ Enable supply chain traceability
• ✅ Increase consumer trust

In particular, many markings are mandatory under regulations set by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

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Coding Systems Used in the Food Industry

1. CIJ Inkjet (Continuous Inkjet)

The most widely used system.

Advantages:

• Suitable for high-speed production lines
• Can print on various surfaces such as plastic, glass, metal, and cardboard
• Non-contact printing

Disadvantages:

• Requires ink and solvent
• Needs periodic maintenance