When you’re handling your fresh produce, spare a thought for those PLU stickers. They may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they’re actually a treasure trove of information about your food. The four- or five-digit code on these stickers can reveal a wealth of details about how your produce was sourced. This knowledge is a powerful tool in your quest to avoid genetically modified foods, enabling you to make well-informed choices about the food you consume.
The PLU code system wasn’t just thrown together. It was meticulously crafted by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFFP), a respected global alliance of produce associations. The IFFP’s primary goal is to enhance the efficiency of the fresh produce supply chain. The codes were devised to ensure accurate pricing and expedite checkouts for cashiers. But they also play a vital role for consumers, equipping them with the ability to uncover crucial information about their produce, such as its cultivation methods, pesticide use, and genetic modification status.
Let’s break it down: Four-digit codes indicate conventionally grown produce—artificial fertilizers and pesticides were used to prevent diseases and promote growth. Five-digit codes that start with a 9 signify organic products—grown with natural fertilizers like manure and meet the USDA’s certified organic produce standards. A five-digit code that starts with an 8 means the product is genetically modified, or GMO. It’s best to steer clear of GMO products or those with GMO ingredients when you can. Keep in mind, the PLU code system isn’t mandatory, so there’s a gap in identifying all genetically modified foods.
You can take charge of your health by becoming a well-informed consumer. Your health is in your hands, and being aware of what you consume is a crucial step. Research ingredients to determine their impact on your health. Remember to read the product label and the PLU sticker to identify how the produce you consume is grown.
Ronni Walker is a certified personal trainer and nutritionist with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in mass communication. She is committed to helping people transition to and maintain healthy lifestyles through the P.RE.T.T.Y. Girl Fitness project. You may contact by sending an email to coach@PGF.life.
