Batch Number and Expiry Date: How to Print Them on Products and Packaging

Printing the batch number and expiry date is an important part of product identification and coding processes. These details make it possible to associate each product or package with specific production information and support traceability throughout the supply chain.

For companies manufacturing and packaging food, beverages, pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, chemicals and many other goods, choosing the right industrial marking solution makes it possible to efficiently manage variable data such as batch numbers, dates and identification codes.

Why Print Batch Numbers and Expiry Dates?

The batch number and expiry date are variable information that must be updated according to each production run. Accurate marking makes it easier to identify products throughout the different stages of the supply chain, from production and packaging to logistics and distribution.

Clear and correctly positioned printing can also support:

• batch identification;
• warehouse management;
• packaged product control;
• traceability;
• production information management;
• logistics operations.

For this reason, marking needs to be integrated into the production process in a way that is consistent with the characteristics of both the production line and the product.

How to Print Batch Numbers and Expiry Dates?

To print batch numbers and expiry dates, companies can use industrial marking and coding systems capable of managing variable information automatically.

Among the inkjet technologies used in industrial applications are Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Thermal Inkjet (TIJ). The appropriate technology depends on the characteristics of the specific application and substrate.

Before choosing a printer or industrial marker, it is important to evaluate several factors:

• material and characteristics of the surface;
• type of product or packaging;
• marking position;
• amount of information to be printed;
• production line speed;
• environmental conditions;
• readability and adhesion requirements.

A preliminary application analysis therefore helps identify the configuration that best matches the actual production requirements.

Printing Batch Numbers, Expiry Dates and Other Variable Data

An industrial coding solution can be used to manage different types of information, depending on the technology and configuration selected.

In addition to batch numbers and expiry dates, companies may print, for example:

• production dates;
• product codes;
• sequential numbering;
• variable text;
• barcodes;
• QR Codes;
• DataMatrix codes;
• other traceability information.

Managing this data directly on the production line makes it possible to adapt marking to different products and production formats while reducing the need for manual intervention.

Which Printer Should You Choose for Batch Numbers and Expiry Dates?

There is no single solution that is suitable for every application. CIJ and TIJ technologies can meet different industrial requirements, and the choice should take into account the substrate, product type, amount of information to be printed and production line conditions.

Rather than starting with the machine itself, it is therefore useful to start with the application: analysing the product, carrying out print tests when necessary and evaluating which technology can provide the required result.

Fam Printing: Solutions for Industrial Marking

Fam Printing supports companies in selecting and implementing industrial marking and coding solutions, using CIJ and TIJ inkjet technologies.

Support can include application analysis, technical consulting, print testing, installation and configuration, operator training and after-sales technical assistance.

The goal is to identify a solution that is consistent with the production process and the characteristics of the product to be marked.

Conclusion

Accurate printing of the batch number and expiry date is an important element in product identification and management throughout the supply chain. An industrial marking solution should therefore be selected by considering not only the information to be printed, but also the substrate, production process and characteristics of the production line.

Fam Printing can support companies in analysing their application and selecting the most suitable inkjet solution for their specific requirements.

Would you like to find out which solution is best suited to printing batch numbers and expiry dates? Contact Fam Printing to discuss your application.