How Customers Check EAN Codes to Make Informed Purchases

The market is flooded with cases of adulterated, counterfeited, and substandard products. This is deteriorating consumer trust in brands and their supply chain practices. 

When shopping online or even in-store, customers often wonder whether the product they are purchasing is genuine. Thankfully, customers now have easy ways to check EAN codes of products before making a purchase — empowering them in their buying journey. In this blog, we will discuss the two most reliable methods for determining a product’s authenticity.

What is an EAN Code?

An EAN code/EAN barcode is a barcode standard developed by GS1 and used worldwide to facilitate products’ unique identification. It plays a key role in ensuring every product can be universally identified. The two most common types of barcodes are UPC and EAN.

• • EAN-13: A 13-digit code, most commonly used for retail products worldwide.
  • EAN-8: A shorter, 8-digit code designed for small packaging where space is limited.

• UPC-A: It encodes a 12-digit GTIN and is primarily used in North America. 

• UPC-E: Similar to EAN-8, it encodes an 8-digit GTIN. UPC-E is developed for small products sold in North America. 

All the barcodes serve the same purpose: providing a unique, scannable identifier that links directly to authentic product details.

Why Customers Need to Check the EAN Code

For buyers, verifying an EAN code means consumers have faith in their buying decisions. With easily accessible and detailed product data, they are more likely to trust their purchases. Below are a few more reasons why customers need to check the EAN code of products –

• Ensuring authenticity: Checking the product’s barcode helps consumers verify the authenticity of products. It confirms the product actually belongs to the brand owner and is not one of its duplicates. This legitimacy makes them feel more confident and in control. 
• Verifying details: By checking EAN codes, customers can digitally validate product attributes such as brand, size, ingredients, or packaging date. Further, they can also access any trade or nutritional licences provided by brands. 
• Preventing counterfeits: When consumers can validate EAN codes online, they can safeguard themselves from buying counterfeits/adulterated/substandard products.
  

How to Check EAN Code: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Online EAN Code Lookup Tools – Several global databases allow customers to enter a product’s EAN and instantly access product information. These platforms, which include the GTIN Validation service of GS1 India and the Verified by GS1 portal, provide details such as product name, brand, and packaging specifications. Information is directly uploaded by the brand owner; hence, there is less data discrepancy. 
2. Barcode Scanner Apps – Mobile apps like the Smart Consumer app make EAN verification seamless. By simply scanning the barcode with a smartphone camera using the Smart Consumer app, users can access genuine product details in real-time. The apps also display reviews, pricing comparisons, and additional product insights, empowering consumers every step of the way. 
3. Manual Cross-Verification – Customers can also check if the details linked to the EAN code match the information printed on the packaging, such as the brand name, weight, or expiry date. Any discrepancies here can indicate potential fraud.

Limitations to Be Aware Of

While checking an EAN code is effective, customers should be aware of a few limitations:

• Fake barcodes still exist: Counterfeiters can replicate barcodes, though they rarely match with genuine databases.
• Not all products are listed publicly: Some brand owners may not make their data available on open platforms; therefore, it is always recommended to purchase from verified brand owners only. All these brand owners upload their product data in DataKart – the national product data repository. 
• Verification depends on trusted sources: Customers must rely on official or reputable databases and apps, as listed above.
  

The Future of Product Verification with EAN Codes

The way customers check product authenticity is evolving. EAN codes are increasingly being integrated with QR codes, RFID tags, and even blockchain systems, providing stronger layers of transparency.

GS1 standards will continue to play a critical role, ensuring data accuracy and consistency across borders. The future belongs to a more empowered consumer base — one that can easily verify product authenticity through their smartphones.

Conclusion

Checking an EAN code is one of the simplest yet most powerful steps customers can take to protect themselves in today’s crowded marketplace. From spotting counterfeit goods to verifying brand information, this practice builds trust and ensures smarter, safer buying decisions.

By using online tools, barcode scanner apps, and official brand websites, customers can quickly confirm product authenticity and shop with confidence. The next time you’re about to make a purchase, don’t just look at the packaging — check the EAN code and make sure you’re getting exactly what you paid for.