What are produce stickers made of?
Produce stickers, including the small label you find on a tomato, are made of three key components: the paper or plastic film, the adhesive, and the ink. While the exact composition can vary between manufacturers, all three elements must meet strict food safety guidelines set by regulatory bodies like the FDA.
Paper or Plastic Film
Sticker labels are often made from a form of plastic, such as polypropylene, to be durable and water-resistant. This protective layer prevents the ink and adhesive from being affected by moisture during shipping, refrigeration, and handling. Some manufacturers are transitioning to more eco-friendly options, such as compostable paper stickers, but plastic-based labels remain common.
Food-Grade Adhesive
The glue used to adhere the sticker to the tomato is designed for direct food contact. It is considered food-grade and non-toxic, meaning it won't cause harm if a small amount is accidentally consumed. The regulations for this adhesive are strict because it must not leave harmful residue on the food once the sticker is removed.
Non-Toxic Ink
The ink used for the PLU (Price Look-Up) codes and branding is also food-safe. It is formulated so that it won't be absorbed into the produce and is safe for contact with food surfaces. This prevents any chemical contamination from the label itself.
Indigestible vs. Edible: Understanding the Difference
This is the most crucial distinction regarding produce stickers. The terms "non-toxic" and "edible" are not interchangeable. While the FDA considers the materials in a fruit sticker and its adhesive to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for incidental contact with food, they are not classified as edible.
- Non-toxic: The materials will not cause harm or poisoning if accidentally consumed in small amounts. Think of a non-toxic crayon—it won't kill you if you eat it, but you still shouldn't.
- Indigestible: The sticker materials, whether paper or plastic, cannot be broken down by your body's digestive system. The sticker will pass through your digestive tract and exit your body intact, similar to how chewing gum passes through.
- Edible: Meant to be consumed and digested as food, like the skin of an apple. Produce stickers have no nutritional value and are not meant to be a food source.
Beyond a Tomato: PLU Codes and Identification
PLU codes are the numbers printed on produce stickers. They are a globally standardized system managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS). These codes help streamline checkout and inventory by providing information on the item's variety, size, and growing method.
Common PLU code formats:
- Four-digit code: Indicates the produce was conventionally grown with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
- Five-digit code beginning with '9': Indicates the produce was certified organic, grown without synthetic chemicals.
- Five-digit code beginning with '8': Historically indicated genetically modified (GMO) produce, though this code is rarely used in practice today.
This system allows grocery stores and consumers to make informed choices, and the presence of a sticker with a specific PLU code is key to this process.
Comparison of Conventional vs. Modern Produce Labeling
| Feature | Conventional Plastic/Paper Stickers | Modern Eco-friendly or Stickerless Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic or laminated paper | Compostable paper, rice paper, or laser-etched directly onto produce |
| Adhesive | Food-grade, but not biodegradable | Water-soluble or compostable adhesive |
| Edibility | Not edible, but non-toxic | Some are specifically made to be edible (starch-based), others are still just non-toxic |
| Compostability | Not compostable due to plastic and adhesive | Biodegradable and can be composted along with the peel |
| Environmental Impact | Contributes to landfill waste and microplastics | Significantly reduced waste and environmental footprint |
| Ease of Removal | Often leaves a sticky residue that can be hard to remove | Dissolves with water or leaves no residue |
The Verdict: Just Wash It Off
The bottom line is that while you don't need to panic if you accidentally swallow a produce sticker, you should make a habit of removing them. The primary concerns are not toxicity but rather indigestibility, potential choking hazards for small children, and environmental waste. To ensure you remove any potential pesticide residue and the sticker completely, it is always best practice to wash your produce thoroughly before eating.
Conclusion
In summary, the sticker on a tomato is safe for incidental food contact but is not considered edible. It is manufactured from non-toxic, food-safe materials that are indigestible, meaning they pass through your system harmlessly if swallowed. The function of these stickers is to provide retailers with important PLU information, not to be a food source. For your safety and for environmental reasons, always remove and discard produce stickers before eating your fruits and vegetables. Wash your produce thoroughly to remove any adhesive residue and ensure a clean, healthy meal. For more information on food safety and healthy eating, check out the recommendations from the USDA.
Practical Steps for a Clean Tomato
- Peel off the sticker as soon as you get home from the store.
- Wash the tomato under warm running water.
- Use your fingers or a clean vegetable brush to gently scrub the surface to remove any remaining residue.
- Dry the tomato thoroughly before storing or eating.
Additional Considerations
While it’s generally harmless for adults to accidentally ingest a single sticker, it is a significant choking hazard for infants and toddlers. Always be vigilant when preparing produce for young children.
Final thought: The best practice is to always remove the sticker and wash your produce. It's a simple habit that ensures peace of mind and contributes to a more sustainable food system, especially as we see the rise of compostable and stickerless labeling technologies.
