Mandatory QR code to combat counterfeiting
The government of India has stated QR codes for all vaccines in order to combat counterfeiting and ensure authenticity. The Drug Controller General of India (DCFI) has initiated an awareness campaign against non-compliance, supported by strict enforcement and prosecution measures. Future expansions include QR code implementation on more products.
10 Oct 2024 | By WhatPackaging? Team
QR codes on vaccines from now
The DCGI has notified that all vaccines should have a QR code similar to drugs. A statement by the ministry said, "All vaccines would have the QR code. It makes it easy for the consumer and other stakeholders to identify the genuine products.".
In addition to the list of 300 brands, the authorities may mandate QR code authentication for more drugs and products
Meanwhile the authorities have taken steps to recall the 45 drugs that were last month listed in the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) monthly list of substandard or fake medicines sold in India. The authorities have initiated action on the manufacturers of the spurious drugs.
Readers of WhatPackaging? magazine will recall that in November 2022, the Union Health Ministry had notified that it was mandatory for pharmaceutical companies to print QR codes on the packaging of the top 300 drug brands.