Data Matrix symbols (the version used in industry is ECC 200) can encode far more data than a linear barcode in a much smaller area, and include error correction so they can often still be read if partly damaged. The GS1 DataMatrix variant carries GS1 data structured with Application Identifiers, such as the GTIN, lot number and expiry date.

Why it matters for labeling

It is the required carrier for the EU unique identifier on prescription medicines, the usual choice for DSCSA product identifiers in the US, and one of the formats used for UDI carriers on medical devices. Because the content can't be read by eye, an error in the encoded data, or a mismatch with the human-readable text next to it, can go unnoticed until the code is scanned.

Common mistakes

  • Encoded data that doesn't match the printed text
  • A wrong Application Identifier structure
  • Checking print quality but never decoding the data and comparing it to the approved values
  • A symbol that is too small or has no quiet zone around it

Sources