Here Is How to Know Whatever Those PLU Codes Mean:
– If the sticker has a 5-digit PLU code, which starts with the number 9, then it means that the produce is grown according to the USDA organic standards. In other words, it means that the produce is organically grown.
– A 4-digit code, which begins with the number 3 or 4 shows that the product was loaded including pesticides. Moreover, it also indicates that the fruit or veggie was conventionally grown.
If the sticker has a code with 5 digits and begins with the number 3, it shows that the fruit or veggie was irradiated or electronically sterilized.
If the sticker has a PLU code with 5 digits that starts with number 8, it means that the product was genetically modified. Unfortunately, no one can grow organic fruits or vegetables by using genetically modified seeds.
In case the PLU code begins with the number 6, it suggests that the produce was pre-cut.
If there are no stickers on the product you are about to purchase, then it may be suspicious. However, in case you know the manufacturer, you should not worry about these codes on the stickers and labels. Keep in mind that all imported veggies and fruits are labeled.
So, in case the product does not have any stickers, it means that it’s not imported or the sticker may be removed for some purpose.
Additionally, the International Federation for Produce Standards hand out those codes. It is actually a global organization that assigns codes to fruit being sold everywhere in the world. Moreover, the retail industry requires applying them to produce to support point-of-sale classification.
Therefore, the next time you’re about to purchase some fruits or veggies, check the code found on their stickers to find out how they were grown.
