I personally find shopping by myself incredibly challenging as I lose my sight. Many products have similar packaging with just small text to mention flavour for example. The RNIB and Kellogg's have been working with St Vincent's School in Liverpool to trial a colourful code that can be scanned by a mobile app from a distance and provide a wealth of information in an accessible form. This is not just a benefit while shopping, it provides a straightforward way to identify the products at home.
Implementing technology like this on packaging provides opportunities to innovate and change how everyone interacts with packaging. The code could be used to provide access to additional languages or by anyone who dislikes peeling the label off to get to the instructions on the back. Another use could be to allow the scanning of products as they are put into the freezer, allowing the defrosting and cooking instructions to be viewed without taking the product out of the freezer.
I am excited to see the future of product packaging and how it can make all our lives ever better.
"I generally don't go shopping anymore because I can't do it without any kind of help," explains Beth Fowler, who is 19 years-old. "Because I can't see, practically… most things."
