GS1 UK | Which barcodes should I use for UDI?

Which barcode should I use for UDI?

With Unique Device Identification (UDI) for medical devices, it typically comes down to a choice of two GS1 barcode symbols, both of which enable encoding of Device Identifiers (DI) and Production Identifiers (PI).

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GS1 DataMatrix

The GS1 DataMatrix has become the symbol of choice for regulated healthcare products. In fact, many manufacturers are swapping linear barcodes for 2D barcodes.

It supports all the GS1 identifiers and all the GS1 Application Identifiers (AI) but in a relatively small symbol that has a large data capacity.

This barcode symbol requires image-based scanners, which all healthcare providers are being advised to use.

Supports all GS1 Identifiers

Supports production data such as batch number and dates through Application Identifiers (AIs)

Needs an image-based scanner

Capacity: 2335 alphanumeric characters

Example GS1 DataMatrix encoded with GTIN, use by date and batch number

Although they are both types of 2D barcodes, QR codes should never be used to encode UDIs.

GS1-128

The GS1-128 is typically applied to higher packaging levels and products that pass through a distribution centre but can also be applied to medical devices and equipment.

Used in healthcare for medical devices and equipment

Used on traded units

Used to encode SSCCs on logistic units

Supports all GS1 identifiers

Supports production data such as batch number and dates through Application Identifiers (AIs)

It’s important to select the GS1-128 and not the code 128 when creating your barcodes. The code 128 is not a compliant GS1 barcode and shouldn’t be used for UDI.

The healthcare industry is making a move away from linear barcodes to GS1 DataMatrix barcodes as they hold more data, take up less space, and can withstand up to 30 per cent damage through built in error-correction. They can also be applied straight onto equipment and devices through direct part marking.