subject: Packaging Design: Don't Overlook The Bar Codes [print this page] Many of us take them for granted, but bar codes really are an integral part of just about every piece of food packaging. Unreadable or unusable bar codes present a major problem in many ways, which is why designing packaging with clearly defined bar codes is so critical.Must Be Clearly Visible -Plan the position of the bar code in advance as you work on the concept designs of your food packaging. The goal here is to place the bar code in an easily accessible place where it won't be obscured or obstructed by things like seals and seams. At the same time, it should be in a spot where cashiers and others won't have to search endlessly for it. The code should be large enough to stand out readily, and shouldn't be squashed together with a lot of graphics or text. In other words, it should be placed in a way that makes it useful and not a nuisance.Taking Colour Into Consideration -Brightly coloured food packaging can definitely add to a product's appeal. However, slapping a bar code over certain colours can render it nearly unusable. Indeed, thee codes rely on high contrast in order to function properly. That, of course, is the reason that most bar codes are printed in a bold, black and white pattern. Ensure that you design the packaging to include a blank space for the barcode even if the packaging that you are using contains many different colours. It will make the packaging more usable and effective, and it won't compromise the effectiveness of the bar code.Make The Bar Code Clear -As tempting as it might be to squeeze the bar code on your food packaging in as an afterthought, the fact is that you really must make accommodations for it from the get-go. When these codes don't have clearly defined borders - when they are squished in amongst a jumble of graphics or text, for instance - they don't work as well. Similarly, if reflective or glossy material is being used, bar codes might not work as well. While you want your packaging to make your product more appealing - and to protect your product - you also want it to be useful. Having a clear, readable bar code can help it be just that.
