We’ve all seen the four-digit PLU codes on produce.
These codes are there for the cashier to ring out your items. But what shoppers may not know is that those codes contain information about the produce itself.For instance, if the code starts with a 9 and have five digits, it’s organically grown.
For example, the code for organic bananas is 94011. These items are the healthiest items you can buy.A five digit code starting with 3 means that item was irradiated.
This means the foods has been electronically pasteurized to remove certain microorganisms. This food is also generally safe to eat.A code that starts with a 6 means the fruit or vegetable has been pre-cut.
These are safe to eat, but cost more than just cutting the food yourself. If you can, you should just save the money and chop the fruit or vegetable at home.
Fruit or vegetable codes that start with an 8 mean that the food has been genetically modified.
While there has never been a connection shown between health problems and genetically modified food, many people try to avoid eating these items. If you are one of those people, avoid foods with an 8 at the beginning of the code.Fruits and veggies that have a code that begins with a 3 or 4 means they were conventionally grown using pesticides.
In general, these foods should be avoided. Pesticides can cause serious health problems, including cancer. You may think you’re eating healthy, but you’re actually eating things harmful to your body.Now that you know, you can shop with confidence.
Be sure to avoid codes that start with a 3 or 4 in your grocery store. Your body will thank you!
