Occasionally it can be a struggle in stores to figure out what is organic and what is not while shopping in the produce department. I’ll tell you an easy way that you can figure it out just by looking at the PLU (Price Look-Up) code. Most of the time a produce will be labeled organic, but if you are unsure, this is an additional way to figure this out quickly.

If the PLU Code begins with a 9, then the product is certified organically grown.

If the PLU Code begins with a 4 or another number, then the product is conventional (not organic).

If the PLU Code begins with an 8, then it is genetically modified (GMO).

Using an 8 to label GMOs is optional, and most companies actually don’t use an 8 if the produce is genetically modified. So just be aware of this when you are seeing that 4 in the beginning of your PLU code. Genetically Modified foods are not regulated and do not require labeling. If you don’t buy organic, then you may be buying genetically modified without knowing it. To help change this, sign the petition to tell the FDA we want GMOs properly labeled.

If this interests you, make sure you check out my easy organic buying guide, What Does Organic Mean?

What are the main produce items that you choose to purchase organic vs. conventional?