Reading produce stickers: what PLU codes do (and don't) tell you
You've probably heard the tip: "If the sticker number starts with a 9, it's organic." It's partly true, and it's a handy clue. But a fruit sticker is a checkout tool, not a certificate. This guide explains what those little numbers mean and what to check instead when you want to be sure produce is organic.
What is a PLU code?
PLU stands for price look-up. PLU codes are 4- or 5-digit numbers, usually printed on a small sticker on loose fruit and vegetables. They help checkout staff and self-serve scales identify the item and charge the right price, for example telling a large Granny Smith from a small one, or a conventional apple from an organic one.
The codes are managed internationally by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS). According to the IFPS:
- 4-digit codes in the 3000 and 4000 series identify conventionally grown produce. For example, 4011 is a standard yellow banana.
- 5-digit codes starting with 9 identify organic produce. The 9 is added in front of the conventional code, so an organic standard yellow banana is 94011.
- In future, the IFPS will also assign codes in the 83000 and 84000 series. Unlike the 9, the leading 8 in those numbers will have no special meaning.
You may have read that a code starting with 8 means genetically modified. That idea is outdated and, under the IFPS scheme, the 8 won't carry any meaning.
There are also retailer-assigned codes that individual stores or countries use for their own purposes, and some Australian suppliers use "Australian Grown" codes for local trade. These follow the store's own system, not the international one.
Why the "9" isn't proof
PLU stickers are voluntary. No government agency requires them, and no certifier checks them. That means:
- A 9 shows what the packer says, not what an auditor has checked. It's usually right, but it's not a certification.
- Many organic items have no sticker at all. Small growers, farmers market stalls and box schemes often don't use them. Neither do many organic shops, where everything on the shelf is organic anyway.
- Stickers can end up on the wrong fruit. In a mixed display, items get moved around.
- The sticker may be from a different step in the supply chain. It shows the code the packer chose, not the history of the fruit.
So treat a 9 as a helpful clue and check further when it matters.
What to check instead
1. The certifier's logo and number. Certified organic produce sold pre-packed usually has a certifier logo (such as ACO, Demeter, OFC or SXC) and a certificate number on the bag, punnet or label. You can check the number on the certifier's register. See How to check an organic certificate.
2. Signs on loose produce. In shops that sell both organic and conventional produce, look for clear signs and physical separation. Organic produce should be in its own clearly labelled section or bins.
3. The shop's certification. An organic grocer that handles or repacks loose organic produce may be certified as a retailer or handler. Some display their certificate at the counter. It's fine to ask.
4. At markets, the grower's certificate. Certified stallholders usually display their certificate. If not, ask who they're certified with.
5. Country of origin. In Australia, the Country of Origin Food Labelling Information Standard 2016 requires unpackaged fresh fruit and vegetables sold at retail to have origin information on or next to the food, usually on a sign. This tells you where it was grown, not whether it's organic, but it's useful if you want local produce.
Other things you'll see on produce labels
- Brand or grower name. Useful if you want to look up a farm.
- Barcodes or QR codes. Some packers add a GS1 DataBar or QR code alongside the PLU number for traceability.
- Variety names, such as Kensington Pride mango or Pink Lady apple. These are about variety, not growing method.
- "Spray-free", "chemical-free" or "naturally grown". These aren't organic certification. See Certified organic vs spray-free vs natural.
A note on stickers and composting
Most produce stickers are made of plastic or have plastic-based adhesive. Peel them off before peels and cores go into your compost, worm farm or council food-waste bin, so they don't end up in the finished compost. They're small, but they add up.
Quick reference
| You see | It probably means | Is it proof of organic? |
|---|---|---|
| 4-digit code (3000–4999) | Conventionally grown | No |
| 5-digit code starting with 9 | Organic, according to the packer | No: a clue, not a certification |
| 5-digit code starting with 8 (future) | A newer IFPS code, no special meaning | No |
| Certifier logo and certificate number | Certified organic | Yes, once you check the register |
| "Organic" sign in a mixed display | The shop says it's organic | Ask whether the shop or grower is certified |
| No sticker at a certified organic stall | Normal for small growers | Check the grower's certificate |
Produce on Blueberry Bear Organics
Every product listed on Blueberry Bear Organics will show the certifier and certificate number for that seller or brand, so you won't need to rely on stickers. We check each certificate on the certifier's register before a seller goes live.
PLU information from the IFPS, and country-of-origin information from the ACCC, checked 16 October 2026. General information only.
— the Blueberry Bear Team