Blogs

How GS1 Digital Link, GTIN on Blockchain Brings End-to-End Traceability to Life

Barcodes, commonly known as UPCs, have long been the backbone of inventory management, providing quick, accurate identification for millions of products worldwide. Plus, with the GS1 Application Identifier (AI) syntax such as lot numbers (batch), expiration date for compliance such as FSMA 204, GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers), combined with GLNs (Global Location Numbers) and blockchain technology, barcodes are powerful tools for comprehensive traceability and trust.

Imagine scanning a barcode with your smartphone and instantly seeing detailed information about its journey: the specific GTIN clearly identifying the product, the lot or batch number indicating exactly when it was produced, and precise location information through GLNs showing where it was stored or shipped. This traceability becomes seamless with AI syntax, which uses standardized identifiers like (01) for GTIN and (10) for batch or lot numbers to clearly define product details.

Take a look at the image below for an example of GS1 syntax in action: But traceability isn’t just about identifying an item; it’s equally critical to know exactly where it has been. That's where GLN comes in, acting as a digital address that pinpoints specific locations such as warehouses, production facilities, or retail shelves. Pairing GTINs and batch numbers with GLNs provides crystal-clear visibility into both the identity of products and their movement through the supply chain.

Blockchain technology further enhances this system by securely recording every scan, movement, and transfer, including GTINs, batch numbers, and GLNs, onto an immutable digital ledger. Each blockchain entry is timestamped, transparent, and verifiable, reducing uncertainty and significantly boosting confidence for all stakeholders, from manufacturers and distributors to retailers and consumers.

Consider this practical example: a consumer purchases a jar of premium honey. By scanning its barcode, they immediately access blockchain-backed records showing the GTIN for precise product identification, the batch number revealing the specific production date, and the GLNs pinpointing which farm it originated from and every warehouse it passed through. This provides unmatched transparency, authenticity, and safety verification.

At GearChain, we’re proud to announce our recent partnership with GS1, empowering companies of any size to seamlessly integrate GS1 barcodes with blockchain-based tracking. With GearChain’s intuitive app, businesses can effortlessly incorporate GTINs, batch numbers, and GLNs, and securely record each movement onto the blockchain, no technical expertise required.

Ready to revolutionize your supply chain with unmatched transparency and trust? Interested in building your products with GTIN? Contact GearChain today.