Overview
- Tesco is reported as the first UK supermarket trialling QR codes on selected own‑brand fresh produce and meat.
- Shoppers who scan the codes can access recipes, storage guidance, origin details and allergen information, with smartphone scanning from any angle.
- Examples in the trial include items such as lemons, limes, steaks and sausages.
- GS1 says nearly half of British retailers have updated tills and projects QR codes could become standard in the next few years.
- Major manufacturers and retailers are also piloting 2D codes, with Unilever, Procter & Gamble and L’Oréal adopting them and Morrisons and Amazon reported to be testing systems, while proponents highlight expiry tracking, stock rotation and discounting to cut food waste.