Batch management explained simply

A batch is a uniform partial quantity of a product or material. Because it was either produced in one production run or procured in one shipment, the characteristics are identical. A batch is identified by means of a batch number. In most cases, these are affixed to the product packaging. They usually consist of four to six characters made up of numbers and letters. A batch number provides information about the batch data, i.e. the following information:

• Where and when was a product manufactured?
• Who manufactured the product?
• Which machines were used in production and which raw materials were used?

Batch management includes functions to systematically manage batch data. Production units can be managed in such a way that reference or production parameters can be distinguished from one another.

With lot tracking, it is possible to fully trace products or production batches across the supply chain, which is particularly helpful in the event of recalls. Because individual products are also given a batch designation, companies can see where a product is currently located in the supply chain at any time. This makes it even easier to recall a product if necessary.

In some industries, batch management is a must: in the pharmaceutical and food industries in particular, products must be fully traceable - this is known as the batch obligation.

Here are the most important industries and areas that are affected:

Pharmaceutical industry

Medicines and pharmaceutical products are subject to strict legal requirements. Every production batch must be fully documented and traceable in order to be able to monitor its origin, manufacture and distribution. In the event of quality problems, the affected batch can be quickly identified and appropriate measures such as recalls can be initiated. This helps to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and strengthens the confidence of patients and health authorities.

Food industry

Food manufacturers need to ensure the traceability of their products in order to be able to react quickly in the event of quality problems or health hazards. Batch management makes it possible to document each production batch precisely. In the event of a recall, it is possible to determine exactly which products are affected. In addition, batch management supports compliance with legal regulations and hygiene standards and strengthens consumer confidence in food safety.

Cosmetics industry

Products such as creams, lotions, make-up and perfumes come into direct contact with the skin and can lead to health problems if they are of poor quality. Batch management enables manufacturers to accurately document and track each production batch so that affected batches can be quickly identified and recalled in the event of complaints. It also supports compliance with legal regulations and quality standards.

Chemical industry

Chemical products, especially those that are used in other products or processes, are often subject to strict batch management. The precise documentation of each production batch ensures that all raw materials used and production conditions can be traced. In the event of quality problems, the affected batch can be quickly isolated to prevent major damage.

Medical products

Strict traceability and quality control requirements apply to many medical devices. Each product must be fully documented to ensure that it meets high quality and safety standards. Batch management makes it possible to react quickly in the event of problems and strengthens the confidence of healthcare providers and patients in the reliability of the products.

Biotechnology

Batch management is essential in biotechnology. It enables complete documentation of each production batch, making every phase of the manufacturing process traceable. This is important in order to be able to take appropriate measures quickly in the event of quality problems. In addition, batch management supports compliance with strict regulatory requirements such as GMP and strengthens the confidence of health authorities and patients in biotechnological innovations.

Batch management is usually handled directly in the ERP system using software.

Typical functions are

• Adding data such as delivery date, manufacturing and expiration date or status to batches and serial numbers
• Tracking of completed bookings - for example, all batches in which a defective component was received can be determined
• Set up various rules via a rule configurator
• Automatic article tracking

Yaveon 365 ERP helps process manufacturing companies to manage batches efficiently. The industry solution for the life sciences covers all relevant functions relating to batch management and traceability - from the recording of raw materials to production and delivery.

Seamless documentation makes it easier to comply with legal requirements and optimize quality assurance. In the event of a product recall, affected batches can be quickly identified and isolated - an important contribution to proactive risk management.