When you are browsing through the produce section at your local grocery store, you might notice small stickers with a series of numbers on them. These stickers are known as PLU codes, which stand for “Price Look Up” codes. PLU codes have been a staple in supermarkets since 1990, making checkout and inventory control easier for cashiers and grocery store markets. But beyond their practical point of sale and stock-taking use, PLU codes can also provide valuable information about the produce you’re buying. Checking the PLU codes of produce can help you make more informed decisions about your food choices once you know how to identify them.
What Are PLU Codes?
PLU codes are a system of numbers that uniquely identify different types of produce. The International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS), a global organization, administers these codes and standardizes them across different countries. Currently, IFPS has assigned over 1,400 unique PLU codes to various fruits and vegetables. You’ll typically find these codes on small stickers attached to individual pieces of produce, which cashiers scan at checkout to quickly identify the item and its price.
How to Read PLU Codes
PLU codes can be either four or five digits long. Four-digit codes typically show that someone grew the produce conventionally, which means it might have received treatment with synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. The IFPS website contains the code list so individuals can look up and search PLU codes. These codes are often in the 3000 or 4000 series. On the other hand, five-digit codes starting with the number “9” signify that the produce is organic. Farmers grow organic produce without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, using only naturally occurring materials like manure for fertilization and plant-based pesticides to control pests.
For example, a PLU code of 4011 on a banana indicates that someone grew the banana conventionally. However, if the code is 94011, it indicates that the banana is organic. Farmers growing organic produce avoid synthetic chemicals but may still use organic pesticides derived from natural sources. For example, they might apply plant-based pesticides like neem oil or garlic concentrate to organic produce.
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Deciphering the Codes to make Informed Choices
Understanding PLU codes can help consumers make informed decisions about their food purchases. For those concerned about the use of synthetic chemicals in farming, opting for organic produce with a five-digit PLU code starting with “9” can be a better choice. However, it’s important to remember that there isn’t sufficient scientific evidence that supports any claims made stating organic produce is nutritionally superior to conventionally grown produce. The main difference lies in the farming practices used, with organic methods focusing on natural substances for pest control and fertilization.
As the demand for PLU codes continues to grow globally, the IFPS is preparing for the eventual exhaustion of the current number ranges. IFPS will assign new PLU codes when existing numbers run out. IFPS assigns new codes for conventionally grown produce within the 83000 to 83999 range, and assigns codes between 84000 and 84999 for organic produce.
Their Role in Grocery Shopping
PLU codes streamline the grocery shopping experience by eliminating the need for cashiers to visually identify different varieties of produce. Certain produce, which can look similar but have different prices, don’t get mixed up and correct produce is identified. This not only speeds up checkout but also reduces errors in pricing. Also, PLU codes play a crucial role in inventory management, allowing stores to track stock levels more accurately.
Misconceptions About PLU Codes
It is true that some five-digit PLU codes beginning with “8” are designated for genetically engineered (GE) or genetically modified (GM) produce. However, this designation doesn’t automatically mean a fruit or vegetable is GE/GM and it is not a common practice to use this code for GM produce. It simply means the producer has reserved those numbers in case they choose to use them for GE varieties later. Genetically modified produce is relatively rare in grocery stores.
Farmers commonly grow crops like corn, soybeans, canola, and sugar beets using genetic engineering, but they do not currently modify many popular fruits and vegetables—such as bananas, apples, and oranges. This common misconception about PLU codes leads to unnecessary consumer anxiety. The system is more of a reservation than an indicator. In summary, PLU codes are not a reliable way for consumers to determine if a fruit or vegetable has been genetically modified.
Conclusion
PLU codes are more than just a convenient tool for grocery stores; they provide consumers with valuable information about the produce they buy. By understanding what these codes mean, shoppers can make informed decisions about their food choices, whether they prefer organic or conventionally grown produce.
As the use of PLU codes continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes to ensure that consumers remain empowered to choose the produce that best fits their needs and preferences. Whether you’re concerned about farming practices, nutritional value, or environmental impact, PLU codes are a simple yet powerful tool in your grocery shopping arsenal.
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