Deciphering the Produce Sticker Code
The numbers printed on the small stickers on fruits and vegetables are called Price Look-Up (PLU) codes. They provide information about how the produce was grown, helping consumers and cashiers identify items, particularly regarding conventional, organic, and genetically modified (GMO) foods. A common misconception is that a five-digit code starting with an '8' signifies a GMO product. However, the truth behind this number is based on a proposal that was never fully implemented.
The Misconception of the '8' Prefix
The association of the '8' prefix with GMOs originated in the early 2000s when the IFPS, which assigns PLU codes, reserved a series of codes starting with '8' for genetically engineered items. This system, however, was never widely adopted at the retail level for fresh produce. The IFPS eventually discontinued the '8' prefix as a GMO indicator, and it is now considered obsolete for that purpose. Currently, the '83000' and '84000' series are being reserved for future conventional codes as the existing sequences are used up. Therefore, a code starting with '8' no longer has official meaning related to the growing method.
The Actual PLU Codes You Should Know
To understand produce stickers accurately, focus on four-digit codes and five-digit codes beginning with '9'.
- Four-Digit PLU Codes: These codes, often starting with '3' or '4', indicate conventionally grown produce. This means standard farming practices were used and may involve synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. For example, the conventional PLU for a small lemon is 4053.
- Five-Digit PLU Codes Starting with '9': The number '9' is the reliable indicator for certified organic produce. A code starting with '9' means the item was grown according to organic standards without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs. An organic banana, for instance, has the code 94011, compared to the conventional 4011.
The Importance of the PLU System
PLU codes are vital for retailers for quick identification, accurate pricing, and inventory management. For consumers, they offer a voluntary but consistent way to verify a product's farming method, aiding those who prefer organic food or wish to avoid produce grown with specific chemical treatments.
A Simple Guide to Reading PLU Codes
- Check the Digit Count: Determine if the code has four or five digits.
- Identify the Leading Number: If it's a five-digit code, a '9' signifies organic. Four-digit codes indicate conventional produce.
- Ignore the '8': The '8' prefix is not a reliable indicator for GMOs in most retail settings.
- Use Other Labels for Assurance: Look for additional labels like the USDA Organic seal for confirmation of organic status.
- Consider Local Markets: Shopping at local farmers' markets or choosing produce without stickers are alternative ways to find produce without stickers.
Understanding the Larger Context
The PLU system is voluntary and does not cover all fresh produce. Items like berries, sold in containers, may have the PLU on the packaging instead of individual stickers. While not perfect, the PLU system contributes to greater transparency in food labeling.
PLU Code Comparison Table
| Code Prefix | Number of Digits | Growing Method | Current Usage | Example (Banana) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| None (3 or 4) | Four | Conventional | Standard retail use | 4011 |
| 9 | Five | Organic | Standard retail use | 94011 |
| 8 | Five | Historically GMO, now obsolete | Not used for GMOs; reserved for future conventional codes | Not Applicable |
Conclusion
To reiterate, the idea that a five-digit PLU code starting with '8' means a fruit is genetically modified is a myth based on an unimplemented system. Consumers should focus on four-digit codes for conventional produce and five-digit codes starting with '9' for certified organic items. Using this information, along with other labeling cues, allows shoppers to make more informed decisions about their food purchases. For further details on PLU codes, consult the International Federation for Produce Standards website.
