By Lilo Last updated Mar 3, 2025

What Do the Numbers on Fruit Stickers Mean? A Guide to PLU Codes

If you’ve ever looked closely at the stickers on fruits and vegetables, you’ve probably noticed a set of numbers. While many assume these are just for pricing at checkout, these PLU (Price Look-Up) codes actually contain valuable information about how the produce was grown.

Understanding these numbers can help you make informed choices about organic, conventional, and genetically modified (GMO) foods. Here’s a breakdown of what these stickers mean and why they matter.

What Are PLU Codes?

PLU codes are four- or five-digit numbers assigned to fresh produce to standardize pricing and labeling. The International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS) created this system in the 1990s to improve efficiency in the supply chain.

While PLU codes help cashiers and self-checkout systems quickly identify produce, they also provide insight into whether your food was grown conventionally, organically, or through genetic modification.

Decoding the Numbers on Fruit Stickers

1. Four-Digit Codes (Conventional Produce)

A four-digit PLU code, typically beginning with a 3 or 4, indicates that the produce was grown conventionally.

🔹 Example: 4011 – Conventional bananas
🔹 Example: 4030 – Conventional kiwi

What does conventional growth mean?

Uses synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
Often mass-produced for efficiency and lower cost.
Nutritional value is generally the same as organic produce, though some consumers prefer organic to avoid synthetic chemicals.

2. Five-Digit Codes Beginning with 9 (Organic Produce)

If the PLU code has five digits and starts with a 9, it means the produce was grown organically according to government standards.

🔹 Example: 94011 – Organic bananas
🔹 Example: 94664 – Organic kale

What does organic mean?

Grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
Uses natural compost and biological pest control methods.
May have a slightly higher cost due to more labor-intensive farming practices.

Important note: There is no scientific evidence that organic produce contains more nutrients than conventionally grown produce, but many people choose organic to avoid chemical exposure.

3. Five-Digit Codes Beginning with 8 (Genetically Modified Produce)

A five-digit PLU code starting with 8 indicates the produce has been genetically modified (GMO). However, these codes are rarely seen in stores because most retailers do not label GMO foods this way.

🔹 Example: 84011 – Genetically modified bananas

What does GMO mean?

The food has been genetically altered to improve traits like pest resistance or shelf life.
GMO crops include corn, soybeans, papayas, and some apples.
While GMO foods are controversial, they are considered safe by organizations like the FDA, WHO, and USDA.

Why don’t we see many PLU codes starting with 8?

Many GMO foods aren’t labeled with these codes because they are often sold as processed foods (e.g., corn syrup in snacks) rather than fresh produce. Also, some retailers avoid using the “8” prefix due to consumer concerns about GMOs.

Does Organic Mean Pesticide-Free?

Many people assume organic = pesticide-free, but this is not entirely true. Organic farmers can use pesticides, but they must be derived from natural sources rather than synthetic chemicals.

According to Dr. Tamika D. Sims, an expert in food technology communications, both organic and conventional fertilizers and pesticides are federally regulated, meaning all produce—whether organic or conventional—must meet safety standards.

Bottom line: If avoiding pesticides is your main concern, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly is the best practice.

Are PLU Codes Required by Law?

PLU codes are part of a voluntary system, meaning that not all produce carries them. However, major grocery chains use them for inventory tracking and pricing.

If you see a fruit or vegetable without a sticker, it may not have gone through the PLU system but can still be conventionally or organically grown.

How to Use PLU Codes to Make Smart Choices

1️⃣ If you prefer organic, look for a five-digit code starting with 9.
2️⃣ If you want conventional and budget-friendly options, a four-digit code is standard.
3️⃣ If avoiding GMOs is important to you, note that a five-digit code starting with 8 is rarely used, but GMOs are often in processed foods rather than fresh produce.
4️⃣ To reduce pesticide exposure, wash all produce thoroughly, regardless of whether it’s organic or conventional.

Final Thoughts: Do These Numbers Matter?

The numbers on fruit stickers are more than just price tags—they offer insight into how your produce was grown. While there’s no nutritional difference between organic and conventional produce, some consumers prefer organic to limit exposure to synthetic pesticides.

If you’re looking to make informed decisions about your food, understanding these PLU codes can help you shop smarter and know exactly what you’re buying.

Next time you’re at the grocery store, check the fruit stickers—your produce has a story to tell!