How many digits does a European Article Number (EAN) have?

The European Article Number (EAN), specifically EAN-13, is a standardized barcoding format that consists of 13 digits. This system is used to uniquely identify products in a way that allows for tracking and inventory management across various retail systems and international markets. The 13 digits are arranged to provide essential information, including the country of origin, manufacturer, and product reference number.

EAN-13 barcodes have become the most widely used and recognized standard for product identification globally, facilitating smoother operations in supply chains and retail environments. The structure of EAN-13 helps in minimizing errors during scanning and inventory processes. While there are other formats like EAN-8, which contains only 8 digits, the EAN-13 is the predominant format used for consumer goods, hence making it vital to understand its composition.