Demystifying Produce Stickers: PLU Codes, Not Barcodes
One of the most common points of confusion for grocery shoppers is distinguishing between the different numbers on produce labels. A crucial clarification is needed right away: the standard black-and-white Universal Product Code (UPC) barcode, found on packaged goods, does not indicate a product's organic status. For loose, fresh produce, it's the smaller, four or five-digit Price Look-Up (PLU) code on the sticker that reveals how the item was grown. This voluntary, global system, managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS), helps cashiers streamline checkout and provides valuable transparency for consumers.
How to Read the PLU Codes
Reading a PLU code is straightforward once you know the meaning of the initial digit. The code tells you if the produce is conventional, organic, or in rare cases, genetically modified (GMO). Knowing the difference can help you decide what you're putting into your shopping cart, particularly for high-pesticide items on the Environmental Working Group's "Dirty Dozen" list.
- Conventionally Grown: A four-digit PLU code, typically starting with a
3or4, signifies that the produce was grown conventionally. These items may have been produced using synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and other standard agricultural practices. For example, a conventional banana might have the code4011. - Organically Grown: A five-digit PLU code that starts with a
9indicates that the item is certified organic. This means the produce was grown according to organic farming standards, which avoid the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically engineered materials. An organic banana would therefore be labeled with94011. - Genetically Modified (GMO): A five-digit PLU code starting with an
8was historically reserved for genetically modified produce. However, this code is very rarely used in practice today. Many retailers have chosen not to label GMO items with this specific code, and most of the widespread GMO crops, such as corn and soybeans, are sold packaged rather than as loose produce. The original 4-digit code is often used instead for conventionally grown products, even if they contain GMOs.
PLU Codes vs. UPC Barcodes
It's important to understand the distinction between PLU codes and the Universal Product Codes (UPC) typically found on packaged goods. The UPC is a machine-readable barcode used for scanning items at checkout and tracking inventory. Unlike PLUs, a UPC on a bag of produce does not directly communicate how the contents were grown. For example, a bag of carrots may have a UPC barcode, but the words "Organic Carrots" on the packaging are the true indicator of its organic status.
| Feature | PLU Code | UPC Barcode |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Individual loose fresh produce items (e.g., apples, bananas) | Packaged products, fixed-weight or by count (e.g., bag of apples, can of soup) |
| Format | 4 or 5 digits, printed on a small sticker | A 12-digit number encoded in a barcode |
| Organic Indicator | A prefix 9 indicates organic farming methods. |
The organic status is indicated by text ("USDA Organic") and symbols on the packaging, not the barcode itself. |
| Standardization | Assigned by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS). | Assigned by the Global Standards Organization (GS1 US). |
| Purpose | Assists cashiers with quick item lookup; voluntary consumer transparency. | Facilitates scanning for pricing and inventory management. |
The Importance of the USDA Organic Seal
While PLU codes are a helpful guide for loose produce, the most definitive proof of organic certification for food products sold in the U.S. is the official USDA Organic seal. This seal confirms that the product has been certified by an authorized third-party agent and meets all federal organic standards. The seal can be found on both packaged and loose produce (often on display signs). The presence of this seal is a formal, government-regulated guarantee, unlike the voluntary nature of the PLU system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how to read a PLU code is an excellent shortcut for identifying organic produce, specifically on un-packaged fruits and vegetables. By simply looking for a five-digit code that starts with a "9" on the small sticker, consumers can make a quick, informed choice. For all packaged products, including produce sold in bags or containers, the official USDA Organic seal provides the definitive assurance of a product's organic integrity. This knowledge empowers shoppers to navigate the grocery store aisles with confidence, ensuring they can choose products that align with their personal food preferences and values.
References
- IFPS Global. "PLU Codes." International Federation for Produce Standards, https://www.ifpsglobal.com/plu-codes. Accessed Oct. 12, 2025.
- Scripps Health. "What Produce Stickers Say About Fruits and Veggies." Scripps Health News, https://www.scripps.org/news_items/4472-cracking-the-produce-sticker-code. Accessed Oct. 12, 2025.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). "Labeling Organic Products." Agricultural Marketing Service, https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards/organic-labeling-standards. Accessed Oct. 12, 2025.
- Farm Aid. "Food Labels Explained." Farm Aid, https://www.farmaid.org/food-labels-explained/. Accessed Oct. 12, 2025.
- KQED. "Food Labeling: How to Identify Conventional, Organic and GMO Produce." KQED Bay Area Bites, https://www.kqed.org/bayareabites/51586/food-labeling-how-to-identify-conventional-organic-and-gmo-produce. Accessed Oct. 12, 2025.
