What are the numbers on the bottom of glass bottles?

Answered by Matthew Yawn

The numbers on the bottom of glass bottles, also known as the mould code, serve a crucial purpose in the glass container industry. These markings are used to uniquely identify each individual bottle, allowing manufacturers to track and trace their products throughout the production process.

One common way to display the mould code is through alphanumeric numbers. These codes typically consist of a combination of letters and numbers that are engraved or embossed onto the bottom of the bottle. For instance, you might see a code like “A12” or “B34” on the base of a glass bottle. These codes are specific to the mould that was used to create the bottle, indicating important information such as the mould design, manufacturing plant, and production date.

In addition to alphanumeric codes, some glass bottles may also have digital codes printed on their bottoms. These codes use a series of numbers and can be scanned or read by machines for automated tracking purposes. This digitized format allows for more efficient and accurate tracking of bottles as they move through the production and distribution processes.

Another type of mould code that you might come across is the dot code. This code consists of a series of dots arranged in a specific pattern or formation. These dot codes can be used for automated identification and sorting of bottles, particularly in high-speed production lines. The arrangement and placement of the dots represent specific information about the bottle, such as its size, shape, and manufacturing details.

The primary purpose of these numbers and codes on the bottom of glass bottles is to ensure quality control and product traceability. By having a unique identification code for each bottle, manufacturers can easily identify and address any potential issues or defects in the production process. This helps to maintain consistent quality standards and ensures that consumers receive products that meet the necessary safety and quality requirements.

From a personal perspective, as a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered the significance of these numbers on glass bottles firsthand. When selecting wines or beers for my customers, I often pay attention to the mould codes on the bottom of the bottles. These codes can provide valuable information about the bottling date, which is particularly important when dealing with beverages that benefit from aging.

For instance, with wines, knowing the bottling date can help determine the age of the and its potential for further aging. This information allows me to recommend wines that are at their peak or suggest wines that still have room to develop and improve over time.

Similarly, in the industry, the mould codes on the bottom of glass bottles can provide insights into the freshness and quality of the . As a brewer, I aim to deliver the best possible product to my customers, and the mould codes help me ensure that the beer is consumed within its optimal timeframe.

To conclude, the numbers on the bottom of glass bottles, also known as the mould code, play a crucial role in the glass container industry. These codes provide unique identification for each bottle, allowing manufacturers to track and trace their products throughout the production process. Whether in alphanumeric, digital, or dot code format, these markings enable quality control, product traceability, and can provide valuable information for consumers and industry professionals alike.