Consumer Information for RFID
This page has information about the Electronic Product Code (EPC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and what it means to you. You might have come in contact with a product or package that contained one or both of these labels:
What do these EPC identification logos mean?
This type of identification is to make you aware that an EPC tag is present on or within the packaging of the product(s). The EPC seal is provided by EPCglobal Inc, an independent, not-for-profit standards organisation. EPCglobal Inc promotes responsible use of RFID and EPC technologies by working with subscriber companies, such as the retail outlet or store who is selling the product and the manufacturer who made the product.
What is an EPC RFID tag?
An EPC tag carries globally-unique, object identification called the Electronic Product Code or the EPC, which requires reading by an electronic device. This unique object identification is the only information stored on an EPC tag.
What is RFID technology?
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that has existed for decades and is currently used with the use of toll road passes (EZPass) and gasoline pumps. RFID is a technology that involves tags that emit radio signals and devices called readers that receive those signals.
Why are retail outlets/stores using RFID technology and EPC tags?
Retail outlets/stores are using RFID and EPC tags to ensure improved product availability for you. EPC tags will also help to ensure that the medicines and products that you purchase are not imitations.
Can I throw the tag away once I buy the product?
Yes. YOU MAY throw it away as you would any other label or tag once you have purchased the product. Products with an EPC tag ARE NOT tracked outside of the retail outlet/store where the products were purchased. The EPC tags only contain information regarding the unique identification of the object to which it is affixed to enable use within the supply chain to manage the product's life cycle.
We hope that this information has answered any questions that you may have regarding EPC and RFID technology. If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact us at (04) 494 1050
To subscribe to the EPCglobal Community, click here.
To request use of the EPC Seal, click here.
