A barcode reader has a weigh platter and an off-platter detection assembly. The weigh platter is configured to measure a weight of an object and has a surface extending in a first transverse plane, a proximal edge, a first lateral edge extending non-parallel to the proximal edge, and a distal edge. The off-platter detection assembly includes a light emission assembly and a light detection assembly. The light emission assembly is configured to emit a collimated light beam along the first lateral edge, above the surface. The light diffusing barrier is positioned in a path of the collimated light beam and is configured to diffuse the light beam such that the light diffusing barrier appears to be illuminated when contacted by the light beam and appears not to be illuminated when not contacted by the light beam.