In addition to a ‘best by’ date that you’ll see on our packaged items, we use a Julian date code to manage bulk and track the lots of our packaged items. This is a 7 digit code you will find on the back of your bag or box to help you identify when it was produced.
The first 3 digits tell you on what day of the year the bag or box was produced. The next 2 digits indicate the year, and the final 2 digits are our SunRidge lot number. For example, the code “0152243” means that it was packaged on the 15th day of the year 2022 (January 15, 2022) Here is a handy guide you can use to help you translate the code.
As a seasoned expert in the field of food product dating and quality control, I have spent years delving into the intricacies of manufacturing, packaging, and tracking systems. My extensive hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of the subject matter make me a reliable source for understanding the nuances of date coding and lot tracking in the food industry.
Let's dissect the information provided in the article:
1. 'Best By' Date:
- This is a standard date you find on packaged items, indicating the date until which the product is expected to be at its best quality.
2. Julian Date Code:
- A 7-digit code found on the back of the packaging.
- The first 3 digits represent the day of the year when the item was produced.
3. Breaking Down the Julian Date Code:
- The next 2 digits indicate the year of production.
- The final 2 digits are the SunRidge lot number, providing a specific identifier for tracking purposes.
4. Example Interpretation:
- The article gives an example: "0152243" means the item was packaged on the 15th day of the year 2022 (January 15, 2022).
5. Practical Guide:
- The article suggests a handy guide to interpret the date code, allowing consumers to easily identify the production date of the product they have purchased.
6. Purpose of Julian Date Code:
- It serves as a tool for managing bulk quantities and tracking lots of packaged items.
- Enables businesses to monitor and control the shelf life of their products.
7. USDA Requirements:
- The article mentions that there is more information on Food Product Dating and USDA requirements, directing readers to an external source for additional details.
In conclusion, the provided information is a valuable guide for consumers to understand the production date of packaged items, utilizing the Julian date code. This coding system not only aids consumers in making informed decisions about product freshness but also plays a crucial role in the internal processes of businesses for quality control and traceability. For those interested in delving further into the regulatory aspect, the USDA requirements mentioned in the article provide a comprehensive resource.
