The Meaning Behind Those Numbers on Fruit Stickers: What You Should Know

If you’ve ever picked up a piece of fruit in the store, chances are you’ve noticed the small sticker on it. These stickers are not just there for decoration – they actually contain important information about the fruit. But what exactly do those numbers mean? Should we be paying attention to them?

In this article, we’ll break down what the codes on fruit stickers signify and how they can help you make more informed choices about the food you buy. So the next time you pick up an apple, banana, or avocado, you’ll know exactly what those little numbers are telling you.

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What Are PLU Codes?

The numbers printed on fruit stickers are called PLU codes, which stands for Price Look-Up codes. These are a system of numbers used to identify individual types of produce at grocery stores and farmers’ markets. PLU codes help cashiers quickly enter the price of items during checkout. While their primary purpose is for pricing, the codes also offer additional information about how the fruit or vegetable was grown and whether it was conventionally or organically produced.

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How Are PLU Codes Structured?

PLU codes are typically four or five digits long and follow a specific pattern. Here’s what the numbers on fruit stickers generally mean:

1. Four-Digit Codes (Conventional Produce)

• If the PLU code consists of four digits, the fruit was grown conventionally, meaning it was grown with the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.
• Example: A regular banana might have the PLU code 4011.

1. Five-Digit Codes Starting with ‘9’ (Organic Produce)

• If the code begins with a 9 and is followed by four other digits, it indicates that the produce is organic. Organic produce is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and adheres to strict regulations set by organic certification organizations.
• Example: An organic banana would have the PLU code 94011.

1. Five-Digit Codes Starting with ‘8’ (Genetically Modified (GMO) Produce)

• In the past, produce with a five-digit code starting with an 8 was used to indicate genetically modified organisms (GMO) crops. However, this system has been largely abandoned and is not commonly used anymore. Despite this, some sources still refer to it as the GMO code.
• Example: In theory, a genetically modified apple might have a PLU code starting with an 8, such as 84001, but this is quite rare in practice.

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