BASF is introducing to China a product label that features an identification system it has developed with a local partner for local farmers to buy genuine BASF crop protection products.
“Our new technology quickly proves the authenticity of BASF products and points out with clarity products that are counterfeited,” said Tracy Wu, director business management Greater China, BASF Crop Protection.
The technology incorporates a water mark into the product label that is invisible indoors but clearly visible in sunlight.
In addition, the BASF know-how Verbund has created a special BASF color pigment to provide an additional unique characteristic that makes it even easier for farmers and retailers to identify genuine BASF products.
The technology has already been incorporated into the BASF Cabrio, Cabrio Top, Merivon and Cantus fungicide product labels since March 2015.
From 2016, it will be incorporated into the labels of other product lines, and the technology will be updated.
In other markets, like Brazil, BASF has also invested in a tailor-made device that helps its customers to check the authenticity of their purchase.
The so-called DAF (anti-counterfeiting device) system consists of a seal containing a data matrix code and a modern bimetallic foil that can be applied to all product containers.
Through directing a laser pointer to the bimetallic foil, BASF’s sales force and customers can identify the authenticity of the product: if authentic, the word BASF will be reflected.
With illegal crop protection products making an estimated 9% of the total market, such solutions are of extreme relevance to Brazilian growers and further support to the development of sustainable agriculture.
