Quick Tips: Deciphering PLU Codes

An organic PLU code

Ever wonder what those numbered stickers on your produce actually mean? Those numbers represent a code called a PLU, or price look-up code. The idea behind these stickers is to tell you how your produce was grown (and to help cashiers give you a speedier check-out). The code will indicate whether your produce was raised conventionally, organically, or is genetically modified. 

Most people already know the difference between conventionally grown and organically grown crops (pesticides vs. no pesticides) but the newest hot-button issue is whether or not GMOs are safe to eat. (For those new to the topic, GMO means that it contains genes from other organisms.) The most widely sold genetically modified items are corn, soybeans, canola, cotton, papaya, and squash. Again, because PLU codes aren't required, these GMOs might be labeled as conventional. The jury is still out on the long-term implications of eating GMOs, but some researchers cite an increase in allergies as a possible side effect. 

Not sure which items are worth the investment of buying organic? Check out our previous post about the dirty dozen.

Here's a quick guide to reading PLU codes: 

• A five-digit code that starts with an 8=genetically modified
• A five-digit code that starts with a 9=organic 
• A four-digit code that starts with a 3 or 4=conventionally grown

Remember, buyer beware! The only way to absolutely guarantee that you are not eating genetically modified food is to only eat foods labeled as certified organic, or items that you choose to grow yourself. Hopefully this information will help guide you during your next shopping trip!