EAN (European Article Number) barcode, also known as the International Article Number (EAN) barcode, is a standardized barcode system used worldwide for labeling retail products. The EAN barcode system was originally developed in Europe and is now widely used in many countries around the world.

​

EAN barcodes consist of a series of vertical bars and spaces, with a unique 13-digit number assigned to each product. The barcode is scanned using a barcode reader, which reads the bars and spaces and converts them into a digital code that can be used to look up product information in a database.

EAN barcodes are used by retailers to track inventory, automate the checkout process, and ensure that the correct price is charged for each item. They are also used by manufacturers to identify their products and track them through the supply chain.

There are several different variations of the EAN barcode, including the EAN-13, EAN-8, and UPC (Universal Product Code) barcodes. The EAN-13 barcode is the most common and is used for retail products sold worldwide, while the EAN-8 barcode is used for smaller products that do not have enough space for the larger EAN-13 barcode. The UPC barcode is used primarily in North America and is similar to the EAN-13 barcode but has a 12-digit code.