Understanding Produce Labels

Understanding the produce labels in your local markets will help you understand how your food was grown. The International Federation of Produce Coding standardized the Price Look Up (PLU) codes for every grocery store in the US.

Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables have 4-digit numbers and usually begin with a 3 or 4.

Genetically modified (GMO) fruits and vegetables also have 5-digit numbers and begin with an 8 (as above, the 8 is a prefix to the 4-digit PLU).

Organically grown fruits and vegetables have 5-digit numbers and begin with a 9 (the 9 is a prefix to the 4-digit PLU).

Example:

• 4015 - PLU for a conventionally grown apple
• 84015 - PLU for an apple that is genetically modified
• 94015 - PLU for an organically grown apple

Take a moment to read the labels next time you shop, and look for GMO-free or organic (ideal) whenever possible.

Happy shopping!