A total of 48,000 quick-response (QR) codes were labelled on the packaging of products currently on display for sale in the Moi and Nguyen Tri Phuong markets in Hai Chau District, Da Nang, on Wednesday, thus allowing shoppers to trace the origins of what they want to purchase with high transparency.

Ms. Phan Thi Thang Loi, Hai Chau District People's Committee Vice Chairman (right) instruct a stall holder on how to label QR codes on products, June 2, 2021. Photo: QUYNH TRANG

The pilot programme is aimed at enhancing the State management and supervision in food safety, protecting legal interests and health of consumers and increasing their trusts as well.

The smart stamps were affixed to many pre-processed and pre-processed food products, including fish sauce of all kinds, ‘cha bo’ (grilled beef roll) and some dried food items.

Ms. Le Thuy, a stall holder touting for business in the Moi Market, said, “This is the first time we have been introduced to the use of QR codes. We will focus on carefully checking the clear origin of products on sale in a bid to ensure food safety and hygiene for the sake of our customers’ health”.

In the coming time, QR codes will be labelled on the other commodities on sale in the above-mentioned markets and the programme will be expanded into remaining markets across the district, Ms. Phan Thi Thang Loi, Hai Chau District People's Committee Vice Chairman, said.

Customers could use any QR code scanner available on their smartphones to scan the one-time label on any package of food items to trace their origins

Customers could use any QR code scanner available on their smartphones to scan the one-time label on any package of food items to access detailed information about ingredients, and the provenance of food products.

In addition, customers can learn about the traceability of produce packages, especially when they were packaged and distributed, as well as a list of any pesticides and fertilizers used.

Reporting by QUYNH TRANG - Translating by A.T