Codes printed on produce stickers often go unnoticed, yet they can reveal helpful information about how fruits and vegetables were grown. These numbers, known as PLU (Price Look-Up) codes, were created to help retailers identify produce at checkout, but they also offer insight for shoppers who want to make more informed food choices. As interest in food sourcing has grown, more consumers have become curious about what these codes mean.
In general, four-digit PLU codes indicate conventionally grown produce, while five-digit codes starting with the number 9 are used for organic items. Codes beginning with the number 8 were once meant to identify genetically modified produce, though they are rarely used today. Even so, genetically modified foods remain a topic of concern for some consumers, especially those who prefer to avoid them due to unanswered questions about long-term health or environmental effects.
Conventional agriculture has helped increase global food production and improve availability, but it has also contributed to challenges such as soil degradation, water pollution, and reduced biodiversity in certain areas. Organic farming takes a different approach, focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and lower chemical use. These practices are often viewed as more supportive of long-term environmental sustainability.
By learning to read PLU codes, shoppers can better align their food choices with personal values related to health and sustainability. When paired with buying local and seasonal produce, this knowledge supports a more resilient food system. Small, informed decisions at the grocery store can help people feel more confident and intentional about what they bring home.
