Labels play a crucial role in providing essential information, from safety warnings to nutritional details. Among these labels, the numbers on fruit stickers found in grocery stores hold valuable insights. Understanding these numbers can shed light on how the food was grown and produced.
Numbers on Fruit Stickers like 9
While bar codes help in identifying products at the register, the numbers on fruit stickers offer deeper insights. For example, a 5-digit number starting with 9 signifies organically grown produce.
Read More: Why You Should Never Buy Precut Fruit
Number 8
On the other hand, a 5-digit code starting with 8 indicates genetically modified products. Despite the controversy surrounding GMO foods, their prevalence in the market remains low.
4-Digit Code
A 4-digit code starting with 3 or 4 indicates conventionally grown produce, highlighting the differences in farming methods between organic and conventional practices.
What is Conventional Growth
The distinction between organic and conventional growth lies in the fertilizer and pesticide practices used. While both methods have their regulations, concerns about long-term health impacts persist.
Read More: Eating This Fruit Has Been Associated With Lower Risk Of Cardiovascular And Coronary Heart Disease
Dr. Sims Elaborates
Dr. Tamika D. Sims emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet over fixating on organic labels. Prioritizing variety in food choices contributes more to overall health than solely focusing on organic produce.
Numbers on Fruit Stickers Signify a System
The numbers on fruit stickers provide consumers with information about the food’s origin and production methods, aiding in making informed choices while grocery shopping.
What is the Internationally Standardized System
The International Federation for Produce Standards has implemented a code system on stickers to ensure quality and traceability. While optional, this system aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and maintain international standards.
Creating Numbers on Fruit Stickers
Introduced in the 1990s, the numerical codes on fruit stickers categorize products for quality assurance. Understanding these codes can streamline the checkout process and promote awareness of food origins.
Read More: 10 Fruit and Vegetable Peels You Should Never Throw Away
Sources
- “What do PLU codes say about your produce?” CR. May 7, 2010.
- “Who are We?” IFPS
- “Cracking the Produce Sticker Code.” Scripps. January 8, 2024.
- “What Those Codes on Your Produce *Really* Mean.” Eating Well. Karla Walsh. December 16, 2022.
