Produce Sticker Codes: What The Heck Do They Mean?

Did you ever wonder what those numbers on fruit and vegetable stickers mean? If you thought those little stickers were meant to speed up your check out at the counter…think again because you’ll be shocked that those stickers actually represent a wealth of information.

As a matter of fact, the price-look (PLU) system used by most distributors is a good way for consumers to figure out how the fruit or vegetable was grown. It’s a good way to find out whether the produce you are about to pick up is conventional, organic or genetically modified (GMO). Even though Proposition 37 was defeated in California, which means that genetically modified (GMO) produce will not be added to labels at this time, the PLU codes will assist you on your next trip to the grocery store.

While we’re on the topic of food stickers, the folks behind PLU stickers want you to know that the adhesive are considered food-grade, but I want to remind you that they aren’t edible. To learn more about PLU codes, you can also visit: http://www.plucodes.com/. You’ll be asked four simple questions that have nothing to do with your personal information, most likely just for tracking or survey purposes.

Have a great day! 

Dr. Brian

1. Non GMO Project
2. Organic Certification
3. GMO Foods: Super Solution or Franken Future?

1. Food Labeling: How To Identify Conventional/Organic/GMO