Pharmaceutical Coding & Marking

Pharmaceutical packaging demands precise, legible, verifiable codes — expiration dates, lot and batch numbers, and increasingly 2D Data Matrix codes for traceability and serialization.

What pharma lines code

  • Expiration / use-by dates
  • Lot and batch numbers
  • GS1 Data Matrix codes (GTIN, batch, expiry, serial)
  • Human-readable text alongside 2D codes

What drives it

  • Traceability and track-and-trace programs
  • Anti-counterfeit and product authentication
  • High legibility and code-quality requirements
  • Serialization initiatives and 2D code adoption

Why thermal inkjet

Thermal inkjet (TIJ) prints sharp, high-resolution text and GS1-grade Data Matrix codes with native variable data, so each pack can carry its own lot, expiry, and serial. It runs cleanly on cartons, labels, and many surfaces with minimal maintenance. Serialization and track-and-trace requirements vary by market and are complex — tell us your program and we will help you scope a compliant coding setup.

Build your coder

Tell us your application

Share your product, substrate, and line speed and we’ll recommend the right setup.

Frequently asked questions

What codes are used on pharmaceutical packaging?

Typically an expiration date and a lot/batch number, plus a 2D Data Matrix code that can carry the product identifier (GTIN), batch, expiration, and a serial number for traceability and authentication.

Can thermal inkjet print Data Matrix codes for pharma?

Yes. Thermal inkjet prints high-resolution, GS1-grade Data Matrix codes with variable data. Because serialization and track-and-trace rules differ by region and are complex, we recommend scoping the full requirement with our team before specifying equipment.