The "New QR" Explained

In our previous articles, we discussed the urgent need for better traceability and the upcoming FSMA 204 regulations. We established that the old distinct black-and-white barcodes (1D barcodes) are being retired in favor of next-generation 2D Barcodes.

But what exactly is this "New QR"? How does it work at a checkout and on a smartphone simultaneously? And most importantly, how do you put one on your product?

At ProQure, we are making this transition seamless. Here is your easy guide to understanding and implementing the GS1 Digital Link.

Part 1: How the "New QR" Works

You might be thinking, "It just looks like a standard QR code." While it looks similar, the technology inside is different. It is officially called the GS1 Digital Link. Think of it as a bridge that connects your physical product to the digital world.

The Problem with Old Codes

Historically, packaging has been cluttered. You needed:

• A UPC/EAN Barcode for the cashier to scan (price and inventory)
• A QR Code for the customer to scan (marketing, recipes, or sustainability info)
• A DataMatrix or text for lot codes and expiry dates (for supply chain management)
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The ProQure Solution: One Code to Rule Them All

The new GS1 Digital Link standard allows a single 2D barcode to do everything.

1. For the Checkout: When scanned by a modern Point-of-Sale (POS) scanner, it acts just like a UPC. It goes "Beep", identifies the product, and rings up the price
2. For the Consumer: When scanned by a smartphone camera, it acts like a web link. It takes the customer to a specific webpage with nutrition facts, recipes, or brand stories
3. For the Supply Chain: Because it can hold more data, it can also contain specific Batch/Lot numbers and Expiry dates. This allows for instant recall management and fresher inventory

In simple terms: It is a web address (URL) that contains your product's ID number (GTIN).
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Part 2: How to Implement It (The ProQure Way)

Adopting new technology usually sounds expensive and complicated. At ProQure, we have built a free tool to make this simple. You don't need to be a coder; you just need to fill in a few boxes.

Step 1: Access the ProQure Generator

Navigate to the ProQure GS1 Digital Link Generator. You will see a clean interface designed for clarity.

• The Configuration panel is on the left
• The Live Preview is on the right (so you can see your code being built in real-time)

Step 2: Enter Your Core Data (GTIN)

In the first field labeled "Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)", enter the 13 or 14-digit number found under your current barcode

• The Logic: As you type, our system automatically validates the number. You will see a green checkmark indicating "Valid GS1 Syntax" once the number is correct

Step 3: Add Smart Attributes (Optional)

This is where the magic happens. Under the "Attributes" section, you can add dynamic data for traceability.

• Batch / Lot: Toggle this switch to add your specific batch number
• Expiration Date: Toggle this to encode shelf-life data directly into the QR code
• Serial Number: Useful for high-value items that need individual tracking

Note: You don't have to figure out the technical coding for these. Just toggle the switch and type the number; ProQure handles the syntax.

Step 4: Generate & Download

Once your data is entered:

1. Check the Live Preview to ensure it looks correct
2. Click the blue Generate & Download button
3. You will need to sign in to receive a high-resolution image file ready for your packaging designer

Pro Tip: We makes it mandatory to Sign Up so you can manage your links later. This allows you to change the destination URL (where the customer goes) without ever having to reprint the packaging.
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Summary: Why Switch Now?

By 2027, retailers globally are expected to enable 2D scanning at the Point of Sale. By moving to the ProQure standard now, you are:

1. Future-Proofing: You won't have to redesign your packaging in two years.
2. Cleaning Up Your Design: Remove the clutter of multiple codes.
3. Ensuring Compliance: Meeting FSMA 204 traceability requirements effortlessly.
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Ready to create your first next-gen barcode?
Go to the ProQure Generator now and create your official GS1 Digital Link in seconds.