Scanning your story – QR codes and the future of Food Transparency

This week I chat with Maria Svejdar from GS1 Ireland to unpack how something as familiar as the barcode is undergoing a quiet revolution. We talk about how the humble black-and-white lines on packaging are evolving into dynamic QR codes that unlock rich layers of product information for consumers. From sustainability credentials to sourcing details and nutritional data, barcodes are no longer just about price at the checkout – they are becoming a powerful bridge between brands and their customers.

Maria explains how growing consumer demand for transparency is reshaping how products are labelled and presented. Shoppers today want to know where their food comes from, how it was produced, and what impact it has on people and the planet. This shift is driving brands to rethink packaging, data management, and how they communicate their story. QR codes, powered by robust global standards, allow brands to share up-to-date, verified information without overcrowding the label – all accessible with a simple scan..

Used well, these new barcodes are not just a compliance exercise; they are a marketing asset, a storytelling tool, and a way to build trust through transparency.

For more information

https://www.gs1ie.org/about-us/member-benefits/members-stories/