PLU Guide
How to Read PLU Codes on Produce
Those little stickers on your apples and avocados tell you more than you think. Here's how to decode any PLU sticker in seconds.
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The Simple Rule for Reading PLU Codes
You can decode any PLU sticker with one simple rule: count the digits and check the first number.
Conventional Produce
A 4-digit code starting with 3 or 4 means the produce is conventionally grown — no organic certification, no GMO designation.
Certified Organic
A 5-digit code starting with 9 means the produce is certified organic. The 9 is simply added as a prefix to the conventional code.
GMO (Rarely Used)
A 5-digit code starting with 8 was proposed for genetically modified produce. This prefix is rarely used in practice at retail.
Real Examples: Decoding Common PLU Codes
Banana
The most scanned PLU code in the world.
Hass Avocado (small)
One of the fastest-growing produce categories.
Gala Apple
Different apple varieties have different codes.
Fuji Apple
Same rule — 9-prefix for organic.
Mango
Ataulfo/honey mango has a different code (3114).
Lime (Persian)
Key limes have a different code (4048).
What Else Is on a PLU Sticker?
Beyond the PLU code, modern produce stickers often contain additional information.
Brand Logo
The farm or brand logo. Helps consumers recognize and seek out specific brands at retail.
Country of Origin
Required by COOL regulations for imported produce. Tells consumers where the fruit was grown.
GS1 Barcode
A machine-readable barcode for self-checkout scanning and supply chain traceability.
Organic Seal
The USDA Organic seal on organic produce. Required for certified organic items.
Variety Name
For specialty produce — 'Honeycrisp', 'Hass', 'Ataulfo' — helps consumers identify premium varieties.
QR Code
Links to farm stories, recipes, or product information. Growing in popularity for premium brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if produce is organic from the PLU code?
Organic produce has a 5-digit PLU code starting with 9. For example, organic bananas are 94011 while conventional bananas are 4011.
Can I tell where produce was grown from the PLU code?
No. The PLU code identifies the produce type and variety, not the country of origin. Country of origin is usually printed separately on the label.
Are all PLU codes 4 digits?
Most are 4 digits for conventional produce. Organic produce uses 5-digit codes with a 9-prefix. GMO produce would use an 8-prefix (rarely used).
What if a produce item doesn't have a PLU sticker?
Some produce is sold by weight or in bulk without individual stickers. Cashiers may enter the PLU code manually or use a lookup chart.
Do different varieties of the same fruit have different PLU codes?
Yes. Gala apples (4129) and Fuji apples (4131) have different codes. The PLU code identifies the specific variety, not just the general fruit type.
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