PLU Label Guide
What Is a PLU Label?
PLU labels are small adhesive stickers applied to fresh produce that identify the product at checkout. Learn what PLU codes mean, how they work, and why they matter for retailers and growers.
Get a Free QuoteGet a FREE Quote
PLU Label Definition
A PLU label (Price Look-Up label) is a small adhesive sticker applied directly to fresh fruits and vegetables. The label displays a 4 or 5-digit PLU code that identifies the specific produce item at the point of sale.
When a cashier or self-checkout scanner reads the PLU code, it tells the register exactly what the item is, whether it's conventional or organic, and how to price it — without needing to weigh or manually identify the produce.
PLU codes are assigned and managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS), a global organization that maintains the universal PLU code system used by retailers worldwide.
PLU Code Examples
4-digit = conventional
9-prefix = organic
4-digit = conventional
9-prefix = organic
How PLU Codes Work
4-Digit Codes
Standard 4-digit PLU codes identify conventional (non-organic, non-GMO) produce. Example: 4011 = conventional banana.
5-Digit (9-prefix)
A 5-digit code starting with 9 indicates certified organic produce. Example: 94011 = organic banana.
5-Digit (8-prefix)
A 5-digit code starting with 8 was proposed for GMO produce, but this prefix is rarely used in practice.
Why PLU Labels Matter
Retail Checkout
PLU labels allow cashiers and self-checkout systems to quickly identify and price produce without manual lookup or weighing.
Inventory Management
Retailers use PLU codes to track inventory, manage stock levels, and analyze sales data for each produce variety.
Brand Recognition
Custom branded PLU labels put your farm or brand logo on every piece of produce — building recognition at the point of consumption.
Compliance
Major retailers increasingly require labeled produce for their self-checkout systems. Unlabeled produce is harder to sell at retail.
Organic Certification
The 9-prefix PLU code communicates organic status to consumers and retailers without requiring separate labeling.
Traceability
PLU labels with barcodes enable supply chain traceability from farm to retail shelf.
What Goes on a PLU Label?
PLU Code
The 4 or 5-digit IFPS code that identifies the produce type and variety.
Brand Logo
Your farm or brand logo printed in full color for retail shelf recognition.
Country of Origin
COOL-compliant country of origin text for imported produce.
GS1 Barcode
Optional barcode for supply chain scanning and retail POS systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PLU stand for?
PLU stands for Price Look-Up. PLU codes are standardized numbers used to identify fresh produce at retail checkout.
Who assigns PLU codes?
PLU codes are assigned by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS), a global organization that manages the PLU code system.
Are PLU labels required by law?
PLU labels are not legally required, but most major retailers prefer or require labeled produce for their self-checkout systems.
Are PLU labels safe to eat?
PLU labels are not edible, but our adhesives are FDA-compliant and food-safe for direct contact with produce skin. Always remove stickers before eating.
What size are PLU labels?
Standard PLU labels range from about 0.62" x 0.81" to 1.5" x 1.5" depending on the produce type. We manufacture any size to your specifications.
Can I customize my PLU labels?
Yes. We offer full-color custom PLU labels with your logo, brand colors, PLU code, barcode, and any other information you need.
Explore Our PLU Label Solutions
Browse our full range of custom PLU labels and produce stickers.
Need Custom PLU Labels?
Get a free quote from our Florida manufacturing facility. FDA-compliant, custom printing, fast turnaround.