PLU codes (or price look-up codes) can provide you with more information than just what variety or type of produce you’re purchasing, they also indicate whether an item is conventionally grown, organic, or genetically modified.

PLU codes are a numbering standard, based on a four-digit number that identifies the type and variety of bulk conventional produce (including nuts and herbs). Organic items are appended with a 9 (e.g., 9XXXX) and Genetically Modified items are appended with an 8 (e.g, 8XXXX).

Yes, bins are often marked, but for the cost of a brief glance, you can ensure that you’re getting what you want and are paying for.