Nutrition Diet: What Does 94011 Mean on Bananas?

October 4, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 1,500 Price Look-Up (PLU) codes are used for fresh produce worldwide, and understanding them is key to making informed dietary choices. For bananas, knowing what does 94011 mean on bananas can tell you the difference between an organic and a conventionally grown fruit, directly impacting your nutrition diet approach.

Quick Summary

The number 94011 on a banana sticker is a Price Look-Up (PLU) code that signifies the fruit was grown organically. This code distinguishes it from conventional produce, identified by a four-digit code, and offers insight into farming practices for mindful shoppers.

Key Points

94011 means Organic: The five-digit PLU code starting with a '9' is the universal identifier for organic produce, including bananas.
4011 means Conventional: Bananas with a four-digit PLU code like 4011 are conventionally grown, potentially using synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
No GMOs in 94011: The number 9 in the code signifies that the item is not genetically modified.
Similar Nutritional Value: The core nutritional content, such as potassium and fiber, is largely the same in both organic and conventional bananas.
Reduced Pesticide Exposure: Opting for organic bananas can significantly reduce your exposure to synthetic pesticide residues.
Environmental Benefits: Organic farming practices support healthier soil, conserve water, and reduce pollution.
Informed Shopping: Decoding PLU codes is a simple yet effective way to make more deliberate choices that reflect your values regarding your diet and the environment.

Deciphering the PLU Code System

Those small stickers on your produce are more than just a convenience for cashiers; they are Price Look-Up (PLU) codes, part of a voluntary, globally recognized system managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS). These codes help distinguish between different varieties, sizes, and growing methods, which is invaluable information for consumers focused on their nutrition diet. For bananas, the distinction is straightforward and important for anyone prioritizing organic foods.

The Meaning Behind the Numbers

The PLU code format provides a simple key for understanding how your fruit was grown:

4-Digit Codes: Any PLU code containing only four digits, like 4011 for the standard Cavendish banana, indicates that the produce was grown conventionally. This means standard agricultural practices, which may include the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, were used.
5-Digit Codes Starting with '9': The number 94011 on a banana reveals that it was grown organically. This additional digit signifies that the farming methods followed organic standards, which prohibits synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and focuses on natural, sustainable practices.
5-Digit Codes Starting with '8': Originally, a five-digit code starting with an 8 was designated for genetically modified (GMO) produce, such as 84011 for a GMO banana. However, this prefix was never widely adopted at the retail level for fruits and vegetables and is now largely obsolete.

The Nutrition and Environmental Impact: Organic vs. Conventional

While the nutritional profile of organic bananas is generally comparable to that of conventional ones, the differences lie in the farming methods and their broader impact. Both types are excellent sources of potassium, fiber, and vitamins B6 and C. The choice often comes down to consumer values regarding pesticide exposure, environmental sustainability, and ethical production.

Benefits of Choosing Organic Bananas

For those managing their nutrition diet, opting for organic bananas offers several key advantages beyond the nutritional basics:

Reduced Pesticide Exposure: Organic farming avoids the use of synthetic pesticides. While the thick skin of a banana offers some protection, trace chemical residues can still potentially enter the fruit or be present on the peel.
Environmental Sustainability: Organic farming promotes healthier soil, uses less energy, and reduces pollution by foregoing synthetic chemicals. It encourages biodiversity and focuses on long-term ecological balance.
Support for Fair Labor Practices: Some organic certifications are tied to fair and ethical labor standards, ensuring the well-being of farmworkers.
Enhanced Flavor: Many enthusiasts claim organic produce has a richer, more authentic flavor profile, which some attribute to the healthier soil and more natural growth process.

Organic and Conventional Bananas Compared


Feature	Conventional Bananas	Organic Bananas
PLU Code	4-digit code (e.g., `4011`)	5-digit code starting with '9' (e.g., `94011`)
Pesticide Use	Uses synthetic pesticides and herbicides	Avoids synthetic pesticides and herbicides
Fertilizer Use	Uses synthetic, petroleum-based fertilizers	Uses natural, organic fertilizers like compost
Nutritional Content	Provides essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin B6	Provides similar nutrient levels, potentially higher antioxidants
Cost	Generally more affordable due to efficient farming	Often higher in price due to sustainable practices
Environmental Impact	Higher potential for soil degradation and pollution	Promotes healthier soil and reduced pollution
Ripening	Can have a longer shelf life due to processing	Natural ripening process

Making Your Choice for a Healthier Diet

Ultimately, the choice between organic and conventional bananas is a personal one, influenced by budget, personal health goals, and environmental considerations. For many, the benefits of avoiding synthetic pesticides and supporting sustainable agriculture make the slightly higher cost of organic produce a worthwhile investment. Thanks to PLU codes, you can make this choice at a glance in the produce aisle. While the core nutrition of both types is similar, being an informed consumer means understanding the full story behind your food, from the field to your shopping cart. For more information on the PLU system, you can visit the International Federation for Produce Standards website.

In conclusion, the number 94011 isn't a secret code but a simple label signifying an organic banana. Understanding these codes empowers you to choose your produce intentionally, aligning your grocery choices with your broader health and wellness goals. Whether you choose organic for environmental reasons or conventional for budget, knowing how to read these stickers is a simple yet powerful tool for a more conscious approach to your nutrition diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Price Look-Up (PLU) code is a unique number used by grocery stores to identify bulk produce. The sticker helps cashiers and inventory systems track the product, including its growing method, such as organic or conventional.

PLU 4011 indicates a conventionally grown banana, while 94011 indicates an organically grown banana. The added '9' at the beginning of the five-digit code is the key identifier for organic produce.

From a basic nutritional standpoint, both organic and conventional bananas are very similar. The primary health difference lies in organic bananas having lower exposure to synthetic pesticide residues.

While a five-digit PLU code starting with an '8' was once reserved for GMOs, this practice was never widely implemented in retail. Genetically engineered bananas with this label are extremely rare or non-existent in the market.

No, the stickers are not meant for consumption. While the adhesive is food-grade, the stickers themselves are not safe to eat and should be removed before consuming the fruit.

Yes, organic bananas (94011) typically have a higher price point than conventional bananas (4011). This difference reflects the higher costs associated with organic farming practices, which are less reliant on cost-efficient synthetic inputs.

The PLU code does not typically specify the country of origin. However, the label may sometimes include the company or brand logo, which can offer clues about the grower or supplier.