What are PLU codes found on fruits and vegetables?
Posted on: 08/Sep/2015 5:48:53 PM
You might have noticed a four or five digit number on fruits and vegetables. These are called PLU codes that stand for Price Look Up code. These are helpful in distinguishing between the fruit or vegetables that are grown through conventional methods versus organic products and genetically modified ones (GMO). This is helpful for distinguishing at the store. This method of identification is administered by the International Federation for Produce Standards which is an affiliate of the Produce Marketing Association.
Here are details of what you need to know about these PSU codes found on fruits and veggies.
What does the code indicate?
· 4 digit PLU code that starts with 3 or 4 stands for conventionally grown
· 5 digit PLU code that starts with 9 stands for organically grown
5 digit PLU code that starts with 8 stands for genetically modified
Here are some examples:
· 4129 Fuji apple that is grown using conventional method
· 94315 Apple grown using organic methods
· 86591 guava grown using genetic modification methods
With the 5 digit PLU code, the retailers can distinguish between produce of GMO and non-GMO varieties. As there is good knowledge and awareness about the dangers of GMO food products, mostly, we dont find fruits or vegetables carrying PLU codes.
When a fruit is labelled as Genetically Modified, manufacturers are sure that people will certainly not opt for buying it. Hence the process of labelling is set to forgo.
How to find the PLU code online?
The Price Look Up codes of fruits and vegetables that are sold in produce departments can be checked by visiting the website of International Federation for Produce Standards or that of Produce Marketing Association. The site is
