Want more info on what you are eating?

I’m sure most of us who buy a food item, in a can or package, at least look at the package to make sure we are picking up what it is that we want. Some of us go a step further and look at the calories and macros while others of us want even more info like what does this ingredient do or is the food item GMO, kosher, etc. but how can food manufacturers help you learn more? QR codes are the answer.

Smart labels are definitely on the rise but I want to see is that there should eventually be nothing but the product name and pic on the package followed by a truly interactive label. QR codes are a good step in the right direction but unless all packages do something like the aforementioned packaging option, why would a consumer take out their phone to scan a QR code because the relevant info is already there on the package.

Another important question to ask is are consumers really interested in learning more about a product or do they just care about the price point and is it healthy? Should a company invest so much into a QR code for a small percentage of the shoppers? Until the discussion of what is healthy and how to get healthy food to those who want it at an affordable price is resolved, I feel QR codes and smart labeling is just a small step for creating awareness about a product in the consumer’s mind.