A common myth globally is that the origin of a product can be deciphered from the initial 2 or 3 digits of that product’s barcode; whether it be an EAN (13-Digit) or UPC (12-Digit) barcode format. But it isn’t as simple as that – read on to find out more…
By Cat Robinson
By Cat Robinson
This is of interest to consumers who wish to boycott items originating from a certain area for ethical reasons – such as toys made in China which may still contain lead paint and small parts which are potentially harmful to younger children; as well as the extremely low wages paid to workers as well as working conditions they consider unacceptable.
Similarly some groups call for the boycotting of products made in Israel as this they claim supports an economy involved in the massacre of Palestinians.
So clearly this is a touchy subject for many – and why we should be educated about its legitimacy.
Here is a table of some of the generally accepted ‘country codes’: SOURCE
Similarly some groups call for the boycotting of products made in Israel as this they claim supports an economy involved in the massacre of Palestinians.
So clearly this is a touchy subject for many – and why we should be educated about its legitimacy.
Here is a table of some of the generally accepted ‘country codes’: SOURCE
However; this system is most certainly not reliable. The country code assigned to a barcode may well belong to the original producer; but it may also very well be assigned by a distributor who imports these items. Here in South Africa for example; codes are issued to manufacturers with a 600 or 601 prefix; however if this distributor where importing products from Thailand; and assigning the barcode themselves here in South Africa; the product would appear to originate from South Africa.
So how do you really know where a product comes from? Well modern mobile technology may have a solution. One of the most ground-breaking and well-known is an app fittingly named “Buycott” which is available on iTunes and Google Play. This app tracks far more data about the origins and even nutritional details of an item when you scan in a barcode on your smartphone, and can also help you avoid companies or policies which you have particularly strong feelings against.
A barcode is essentially just a number. A useful one; but don’t let yourself be fooled that it reveals all about the product you are buying – always stay informed.
So how do you really know where a product comes from? Well modern mobile technology may have a solution. One of the most ground-breaking and well-known is an app fittingly named “Buycott” which is available on iTunes and Google Play. This app tracks far more data about the origins and even nutritional details of an item when you scan in a barcode on your smartphone, and can also help you avoid companies or policies which you have particularly strong feelings against.
A barcode is essentially just a number. A useful one; but don’t let yourself be fooled that it reveals all about the product you are buying – always stay informed.
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