GS1 DataMatrix in Pharmaceutical Industry: Coding Rules, Print Accuracy Requirements and TIJ Printing System Standards

As the pharmaceutical industry moves toward greater digitalization, the limitations of traditional pre-printed pharmaceutical packaging are accelerating the shift toward online printing, allowing drug information to be generated and updated directly on the production line.
In this context, GS1 standards are becoming increasingly important in pharmaceutical coding.

I.What is GS1 DataMatrix? Why Does the Pharmaceutical Industry Choose GS1 DataMatrix?

1. GS1 DataMatrix is a two-dimensional coding standard developed by GS1 and widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for serialization and traceability.

2. In the pharmaceutical industry, GS1 DataMatrix is preferred because it better meets drug packaging and regulatory requirements.

• GS1 DataMatrix can encode key data—such as GTIN, batch number, expiration date, and serial number—within a very small space, making it ideal for pharmaceutical packaging where space is limited.
• It also offers strong error correction, ensuring reliable readability even when print quality is affected or packaging is damaged.

II. The data format of GS1 DataMatrix

GS1 DataMatrix is not just a generic 2D code, but a structured encoding system defined by GS1 standards. Its core lies in the use of Application Identifiers (AIs), which define and organize different types of data in a standardized format.

In the pharmaceutical industry, common data elements include:

(01) GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

(17) Expiration date

(10) Batch/Lot number

(21) Serial number

This standardized structure ensures data consistency and readability across different systems and countries, forming the foundation for pharmaceutical serialization and global traceability.

III. GS1 DataMatrix Printing Accuracy and Quality Verification

1. Printing Accuracy

Pharmaceutical GS1 DataMatrix printing requires strict adherence to GS1 and ISO/IEC 15415 grading standards, not just visual clarity.

Codes are evaluated on specific parameters with a baseline requirement of Grade C (1.5), though many applications mandate even higher quality.

2. Quality Verification

GS1 DataMatrix must not only be printed, but also verified and compliant.

GS1 DataMatrix quality verification is mainly carried out by inline vision inspection systems or barcode verifiers compliant with ISO/IEC 15415.

Common vision inspection systems include:

• Inline vision cameras
• Smart vision sensors
• ISO/IEC 15415 barcode verifiers
• Handheld verifiers

Using calibrated lighting and optics, the system captures images of the code and evaluates key parameters such as contrast, modulation, defects, and geometry. Each parameter is graded to generate an overall score (0–4).

In pharmaceutical applications, codes typically require at least Grade C (≥1.5), while stricter environments demand Grade B (≥2.5) or higher.

IV. Requirements for TIJ Technology in GS1 DataMatrix

1. Requirements for TIJ Inks in GS1 DataMatrix

GS1 DataMatrix requires TIJ inks to produce clear, high-contrast codes with sharp edges, ensuring reliable readability. The ink must dry quickly and resist spreading or smudging to maintain consistent code quality.

For pharmaceutical packaging—especially laminated cartons—solvent-based inks like GORGEOUS SK11 are often preferred, as they provide stronger adhesion, darker print, and fast drying on non-porous surfaces, helping ensure stable and compliant GS1 DataMatrix codes.

GORGEOUS SK11 TIJ Ink printing on pharmaceutical cartons

2.Requirements for TIJ Printers in GS1 DataMatrix

Resolution: The printer must provide sufficient resolution to ensure each module of the GS1 DataMatrix is clearly printed. Our tij printers’ system supports 300dpi vertical and up to 600dpi horizontal resolution, meeting GS1 code print requirements.

Variable Data: GS1 DataMatrix requires variable data printing capability. Our tij printers’ system supports variable data printing at 5-20 times per second, suitable for serialization and traceability applications.

Print Speed & Frequency: GS1 codes require high consistency under high-speed printing. At 300dpi, Our tij printers’ system reaches up to 210 m/min, ensuring stable continuous production line marking.

Gray Level: GS1 DataMatrix requires strong contrast between modules. Our tij printers’ system supports 8 adjustable gray levels (-2 to 6), improving barcode readability and contrast control.

Learn more: