A lot code is the external, market-facing identifier. It represents the group of products approved and released for distribution and is what regulators, retailers, and consumers recognize. When recalls occur, they are issued by lot code because it clearly defines which products reached the market.
Lot code formats differ between manufacturers, but they typically include:
Lot code example: 21130-09152
You can typically find a lot code in one of the following places:
Note: There is no universal public database for lot codes, since formats are defined by each manufacturer. Most lot codes can only be accurately interpreted using internal systems such as production records, ERP or MES software, or coding system logs. Manufacturers define their own formats, so reading a lot code correctly requires knowing how the code is structured within that facility.
Your product might need a lot code to ensure traceability, safety, and compliance. Lot codes allow you to track which products were released together and where they were distributed.
They are especially important if your product is regulated, has an expiration date, or could pose a safety risk. If an issue occurs, a lot code enables fast, targeted recalls instead of removing all products from the market. Lot codes also support regulatory reporting, quality investigations, and customer trust.
Even when not legally required, lot codes are considered a best practice because they reduce risk and help protect your brand.
Read more here: Traceability Lot Code | FDA
Lot code numbers need to be printed clearly and consistently without slowing down production. Choosing the right lot coding solution depends on the type of packaging being marked, the conditions on the production floor, and how much data must be included in the code. Markoprint provides a variety of lot coding systems built to handle everything from detailed, high-resolution printing to demanding washdown environments. The overview below is designed to help you identify the most suitable Markoprint solution for your lot coding application.
Best for: High-res codes on cartons
Good for: Clean, simple, very reliable
Typical uses: Folding cartons, labels, shelf‑ready packaging
Best for: Washdown environments
Good for: Rugged, water-resistant, durable
Typical uses: Corrugate cases, paperboard, porous packaging
Best for: Rework and manual coding
Good for: Portable, flexible, quick setup
Typical uses: Manual coding, rework areas, warehouses, and backup marking
Best for: Large codes on corrugate
Good for: Big print, easy to read
Typical uses: Washdown environments, food and beverage packaging lines
Manufacturers sometimes include only a lot code and not a separate batch code because the lot code is sufficient for traceability, distribution tracking, and recalls. Lot codes are the primary, market-facing identifiers used to track products that are released together for distribution. They are printed on packaging and referenced by regulators, retailers, and consumers, especially during recalls.
Batch codes, by contrast, are mainly used internally to track specific production runs, manufacturing steps, or process conditions. A single lot may encompass one or more batches, and all batch-level details are typically linked within the manufacturer’s internal records through the lot code.
Because regulations usually require traceability at the lot level, not the batch level, displaying a separate batch code on packaging is often unnecessary. Including only the lot code simplifies labeling, avoids consumer confusion, and still allows manufacturers to trace the product back to the exact batch or batches if needed.
No, a lot code and a batch code number are not the same, though they are closely related.
A batch code identifies a specific production run or manufacturing process and is mainly used internally for quality control and troubleshooting.
A lot code identifies products that were approved and released together for distribution. It is the code printed on packaging and the one referenced in recalls, regulatory reporting, and customer communication.
In many cases, a single lot may include one or more batches. The lot code connects those internal batch records to the products that reached the market.
Read more here about the difference: Lot Code vs Batch Code Explained
Not every product is legally required to have a lot code, but many do. Lot codes are mandatory in regulated industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and cosmetics because they are essential for traceability, recalls, and regulatory compliance. In less regulated industries, lot codes may not be required by law, but they are still considered a best practice. Using lot codes helps manufacturers track distribution, manage quality issues, and protect their brand if a problem arises.
