The use of numbers on fruit in Australia is a common practice that serves several purposes. These numbers, known as PLU (Price Look-Up) codes or stickers, provide valuable information about the fruit, including its variety, growing methods, and origin. This article aims to explain the meaning of these numbers and empower consumers to make informed choices when purchasing fruit.
What are the Numbers on Fruit?
The numbers on fruit are PLU codes, a universal coding system used to identify and track produce items. These codes are typically located on a small sticker attached to the fruit.
Purpose of PLU Codes
PLU codes serve several purposes in the fruit industry:
- Pricing and Inventory Management: PLU codes facilitate efficient pricing and inventory management for retailers.
- Identification: These codes help identify the specific variety of fruit, making it easier for consumers and retailers to distinguish between different types.
Decoding PLU Codes
PLU codes consist of four or five digits:
- Four-Digit Codes: These codes indicate conventionally grown fruits using traditional farming practices.
- Five-Digit Codes: Five-digit codes provide additional information about the fruit’s growing methods and origin.
Meaning of the Numbers
The different parts of the PLU code convey specific information:
- First Digit: The first digit indicates the type of produce (e.g., 3 for apples, 4 for bananas, 9 for organic produce).
- Second and Third Digits: These digits represent the specific variety of fruit within the produce type.
- Fourth and Fifth Digits (if applicable): For five-digit codes, the fourth and fifth digits provide information about the growing methods and origin.
Examples and Illustrations
Here are some common PLU codes and their meanings:
- 3422: Conventional Red Delicious apple
- 4011: Conventional yellow banana
- 93422: Organically grown Red Delicious apple
- 94011: Organically grown yellow banana
Benefits and Consumer Awareness
Understanding PLU codes offers several benefits to consumers:
- Identifying Organic Produce: Five-digit codes starting with ‘9’ indicate certified organic produce.
- Avoiding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): While GMOs are not prevalent in Australia, PLU codes can help consumers avoid them if desired.
Regulatory Standards and Labeling
In Australia, the use of PLU codes on fruit is regulated by various standards and labeling requirements:
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ): FSANZ sets regulations for food labeling, including PLU codes.
- Australian Organic Certification: Organic produce must meet specific standards and undergo certification to display the ‘9’ prefix in the PLU code.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the purpose of PLU codes on fruit?
- A: PLU codes help identify the fruit variety, facilitate pricing and inventory management, and provide information about growing methods and origin.
- Q: How can I identify organic produce using PLU codes?
- A: Five-digit PLU codes starting with ‘9’ indicate certified organic produce.
- Q: Are GMOs prevalent in Australian fruit?
- A: GMOs are not widely used in Australian fruit production, but consumers can avoid them by choosing organic produce or fruits with non-GMO labels.
Conclusion
Understanding the numbers on fruit in Australia empowers consumers to make informed choices about the produce they purchase. By deciphering PLU codes, consumers can identify organic produce, avoid GMOs if desired, and gain insights into the growing methods and origin of their fruit. This knowledge contributes to a more transparent and responsible food system.
Sources
- Australian shopper uncovers the hidden meaning behind the little-known codes found on fruit stickers | 7NEWS
- Do you know how to read (and avoid) sticky labels on fresh fruit? – Our Permaculture Life
- What Do the Labels on Fruit Mean? – Happily Unprocessed
FAQs
What are PLU codes on fruit?
PLU (Price Look-Up) codes are numbers found on stickers attached to fruit. These codes help identify the fruit variety, facilitate pricing and inventory management, and provide information about growing methods and origin.
How can I identify organic produce using PLU codes?
Five-digit PLU codes starting with ‘9’ indicate certified organic produce.
Are GMOs prevalent in Australian fruit?
GMOs are not widely used in Australian fruit production. However, consumers can avoid GMOs by choosing organic produce or fruits with non-GMO labels.
What information do the different parts of the PLU code convey?
The first digit indicates the type of produce, the second and third digits represent the specific variety, and the fourth and fifth digits (if applicable) provide information about the growing methods and origin.
Where can I find the PLU code on a fruit?
The PLU code is typically located on a small sticker attached to the fruit.
Are PLU codes used on all types of fruit in Australia?
PLU codes are used on a wide variety of fruit in Australia, including apples, bananas, oranges, grapes, and berries.
Who regulates the use of PLU codes on fruit in Australia?
The use of PLU codes on fruit in Australia is regulated by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).
What are some examples of PLU codes and their meanings?
Some common PLU codes and their meanings include:
- 3422: Conventional Red Delicious apple
- 4011: Conventional yellow banana
- 93422: Organically grown Red Delicious apple
- 94011: Organically grown yellow banana