GoScan triumphs in national iAwards

GS1 Australia and the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) have won the National Consumer iAward for the GS1 GoScan smart device app, in the services domain category of the 2013 iAwards.

The iAwards are recognised as the most prestigious technology awards platform in Australia for information and communications technology (ICT) innovation.

The judging criteria for the iAwards'services domain category was based on innovative ICT initiatives that can enable companies to move quickly and seamlessly from a product focus to a customer focus by providing technology to deliver in line with customer requirements.

Launched for free download on the iTunes app store in March this year, GS1 GoScan is a whole-of-industry endorsed smart device application to enable consumers to check if a food product suits their special dietary needs with a simple scan of a barcode.

Developed in association with major retailers, local and international food companies, the AFGC, Australian universities and national health organisations including Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia, the app helps consumers with allergies, intolerances and special diets by giving them more information about their food – direct from the manufacturer.

The national award follows GoScan's win in June this year in the Victorian state sector of the iAwards (packagingnews.com.au, June 13).

“Being awarded the national Consumer iAward demonstrates how key industry groups like GS1 Australia and the AFGC can lead the innovation and application of new technologies into traditional industries such as food and beverage,” GS1 chief executive, Maria Palazzolo, said.

“This award is a great achievement for consumers, health professionals and for everyone involved in the development of the app.

“This app is the only app available today that provides consumers with accurate product information from the manufacturer or brand owner. This can have a marked effect on many people living with allergies or special dietary requirements,” Palazzolo said.

GS1 GoScan will also be available from Samsung Apps and the Google Play Store from 28 August.