How to update identifier_exists through Shopify?

Shopify Apps

Topic summary

Google Merchant Center warnings for Shopify’s Google channel show “Limited performance due to missing identifiers [gtin, mpn, brand].” Core fix: create a Feed Rule in GMC (Feeds > Content API > Feed rules) and set identifier_exists to “no” (Google’s updated value; “false” still works). Apply/test and wait—changes often reflect within ~24 hours; verify via Products > All products > Final attributes.

Targeting/scale:

  • For only some products (e.g., custom), target feed rules using conditions or use a supplement feed.
  • Bulk editing these fields in Shopify is limited; consider a third‑party bulk product editor.

Data guidance:

  • If identifier_exists = no, leave brand, mpn, and gtin empty to avoid contradictions.
  • Some categories require GTIN; setting identifier_exists to no won’t remove warnings—submit valid barcodes or accept limited performance and ineligibility for enhanced free listings.

Troubleshooting notes:

  • Two warnings differ: missing identifiers vs missing value [gtin]; the latter persists in GTIN‑required categories.
  • If historical data used “FALSE,” add a rule to standardize “FALSE” to “No.”
  • To remove a mistaken supplement, save as draft then apply to complete deletion.

Outcome: Many merchants report the feed‑rule fix cleared warnings; unresolved cases involve GTIN‑required categories. Discussion remains partly open for edge cases.

Summarized with AI on January 18. AI used: gpt-5.
44

Not wrong, as it will not be able to validate. It only checks if the barcode is 12 to 14 digits long. Anything else will be cleared.

Yes, as a manufacturer, you can assign the MPN + brand and that will the problem in case Google still complains that there is no valid product identifier.

Most likely because you have previously added product identifier information, Google will complain for other products that does not have this info.