Which do you trust? Barcode or package?

tummyhurtsbleh

I’ve have it a few times where the package and the barcode do not match though they are for the correct product. This especially happens a lot with things like Asian snacks or Trader Joe’s bakes goods.

Anyone know which one is more accurate and should be listened to? I take the higher cal one but I’d still like a real rule for this.

VeryKatie

The package. I think the barcodes sometimes reference versions from other countries. The barcode is not any more accurate than typing it in and searching for it.

PAV8888

The now defunct (but still accessible via food data central) USDA *standard reference database* and your general understanding of what makes sense.

The package: manufacturers sometimes lie, or randomly stick wrong data on their package; but, there is at least a fair chance they stated the truth this time!!!

The barcode: it could be pointing to any random other product or even an incorrect package size

moonangel12

The barcodes are user entered and more often than not incorrect. I scan and usually have to go search for a correct entry anyway...

kimny72

Scanning the bar code just reads the name of the product, then searches the database just like if you typed the name into the search bar. It doesn't unfortunately download the nutrition info.

bpetrosky

kimny72 wrote: »

Scanning the bar code just reads the name of the product, then searches the database just like if you typed the name into the search bar. It doesn't unfortunately download the nutrition info.

The barcode doesn't even read the product name, just the UPC code. MFP just matches the code to a database item when a user scans an unknown code and the app asks then to search for a likely match.

The first half of a UPC code is a manufacturer ID, and they assign the second half to their various products. It was never intended to be a globally unique ID, however.

Sometimes manufacturers reuse UPC codes when a new product is introduced they may pick one from that was used by old discontinued product no longer on shelves. MFP wouldn't know that so it might point to the old product unless someone corrects it.

Also, private label manufacturers (the ones that makes the house brands) tend to use the same codes for similar products they sell to different retailers. Trader Joes sells a lot of private label products, so I've seen barcodes that scan and bring up Kroger or Target house brands. The product might be similar but not exactly the same, or it might be a completely different product.

This is not deceptive because the UPC code is intended to be used by the retailers in their POS systems. Therefore a private label product sold by Target would never be scanned in a Trader Joe's, and vice versa.

All of that just means I trust the package label first, and sometimes verify with USDA info as needed.

tummyhurtsbleh

Package label, got it. Thanks everyone!!