Barcoding

VISI proposed that secondary vaccine packaging (cardboard carton containing vials or syringes) include two barcodes: one embedding the NDC number, and one embedding the expiration date and lot number. They should be located on the same face of the package, one above another.

Since cardboard packaging is used with a variety of lot numbers and expiration dates, the preprinted barcode contains only the NDC. VISI proposed that a UCC/EAN 128 barcode be used at a height of 6.0mm, or 15 percent of its width, whichever is higher.

During the filling process when the lot number and expiration date are printed, this information should be barcoded onto the carton using one-dimensional barcodes. The application identifiers are "(17)" for expiration date and "(10)" for lot number.