Tag: Produce labels

The numbers on fruit stickers, known as PLU codes, have been used since 1990 to help grocers identify produce items quickly and accurately. This system, managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS), helps shoppers and cashiers distinguish between different growing methods, so what does 8 mean on fruit labels, and is the common assumption true?

According to the International Fresh Produce Association, ingesting a produce sticker is unlikely to be harmful, though these labels are not meant for eating. The materials are FDA-approved for incidental food contact but are not digestible or nutritious.

Since 2022, the U.S. has mandated new labeling for bioengineered foods, providing clearer guidance for consumers. Shoppers looking for information on how to know if a fruit is GMO can now look for specific labels, interpret price look-up codes, or choose certified organic options.

In the United States, foods labeled 'natural' are not regulated by the USDA, and the term does not mean the same thing as organic, which is federally regulated and certified. To confidently identify genuinely organic produce, consumers must look beyond vague terms and focus on specific labeling cues and observable characteristics.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the stickers on fruits and vegetables are not harmful if accidentally ingested. This fact, however, doesn't mean they are designed for consumption, raising the crucial question: can you eat the stickers on fruits and vegetables?

According to the FDA, the adhesives, paper, and inks used for produce stickers are considered food-safe for incidental contact. This means that while accidentally swallowing one is generally harmless, these materials are not meant for consumption, so are the stickers on fruit safe to eat? The short answer is no, and here's why.

Since the 1990s, the grocery industry has used Price Look-Up (PLU) codes on small stickers to identify fresh produce at checkout. Understanding this system is key to knowing what number is the organic produce label and the meaning behind the codes on the fresh fruits and vegetables you buy.

Food experts and regulatory bodies widely agree that the materials used for produce stickers, including those on a tomato, are not toxic and won't harm you if accidentally ingested. However, this does not mean they are edible or intended for consumption, having no nutritional value and being indigestible.

According to food safety experts, fruit stickers and their adhesives are regulated by the FDA and considered safe for incidental consumption. This provides peace of mind for anyone who has accidentally swallowed one, confirming why it is safe to eat fruit stickers without serious worry.

Globally, organic food sales have seen significant growth over the past decade, yet many shoppers still find themselves questioning what makes a fruit truly organic. This comprehensive guide will teach you **how to identify organic and inorganic fruits** by examining labels, appearance, and other key indicators for your nutrition diet.