In Regulated Healthcare, the determination of which barcode is placed on a product is often determined by regulation.
For product identification and traceability purposes, GS1 DataMatrix remains the 2D data carrier of choice. This ensures the globally harmonised identification of products and facilitate implementations for all stakeholders. The QR Code shall NOT be used for product identification.

GS1 DataMatrix for the identification of medical products
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Small footprint on packaging
The data elements listed below are the four most commonly encoded in a GS1 DataMatrix on medical products. This information helps support traceability and Unique Device Identification regulation, post market surveillance, improve medical outcomes and patient safety as well as digital health advancement. When used to implement pharmaceuticals traceability requirements it can also help identify fake products.
• GTIN: (01)09504000059118
• Batch/lot number: (10)7654321D
• Expiration date: (17)141120
• Serial number: (21)10987654d32