Here's what you need to know about the PLU codes:
1. If the PLU contains only four numbers, this indicates that the produce was grown conventionally, or traditionally, with the use of pesticides. For instance, all bananas are generally marked 4011.
2. If the PLU code contains five numbers and starts with '8', this will indicate that the item is a genetically modified fruit or vegetable, meaning that they have been tampered with in an unnatural way. So in the case of a genetically modified banana, it would be marked, 84011.
3. If there are five numbers in the PLU code, and the number starts with '9', this indicates that the product was grown organically and was not genetically modified. So, an organic banana would be marked: 94011.
What's more? While the adhesive used to attach the stickers is considered to be food-grade, the stickers themselves are not safe to consume.
So, if you are looking to consume fruits and vegetables which are free from pesticides or GMO, buying organic produce is your safest and best bet. Nevertheless, as these items can at times be expensive, a great way to keep costs down is by knowing which fruits and vegetables are generally fine to eat (even if pesticides were used) and which aren't. These are referred to as the Clean Fifteen and the Dirty Dozen. So, which fruits and vegetables fall under these categories? Check out the chart below:
10 Smart Ways to Treat Fungal Infections At Home
If you suffer from some of these symptoms, there are a number of home remedies that can easily treat fungal infections.
These 3 Simple Ways Will Help You Identify Organic From GM
This guide will help you identify which produce is made from genetically modified organisms.
For Healthy Looking Skin, Do You Need Collagen?
If you've got saggy, wrinkly skin, here's how you can increase your collagen intake.
Muscle Degeneration Starts with these 8 Early Symptoms!
Are you familiar with muscular dystrophy? Spot the early signs of this disease by being aware of these tips.
Bet You Never Knew How Beneficial These Foods Are
Include these 12 foods in your diet to reduce the effects of arthritis - they have been shown to fight inflammation, strengthen bones and boost the immune system.
This Simple 2-Minute Massage Can Ease Foot Pain
Suffer from foot pain? This 2-minute massage will help ease symptoms.
When Out Shopping, Avoid These 8 Generic Foods!
Generic foods are becoming more and more popular, but are they always a bargain? Here are 8 foods you should never buy generic.
Solve 18 Cooking and Food Storage Problems With These Tips
These 18 food tips will teach you how to prevent food from spoiling and will show you how to save time and effort in preparing certain foods
How to Fold a Shirt in Just Under 2 Seconds!
A great DIY guide to folding shirt in just 2 seconds each!
This Bizarre Soap Trick Can Alleviate Leg Pain
Did you know that placing a bar of soap under a bed sheet can help reduce restless legs syndrome symptoms? Learn more about this odd trick.
How to Steer Clear of Germs While Grocery Shopping
Who knew grocery stores would become high-risk environments one day? This article explains how to shop safely during the COVID-19 epidemic
Grow These Plants to Banish Mosquitoes For Good!
No one likes mosquitoes, but if you're smart, you can prevent them from bothering you by having these plants in your home.
Brilliant: How to Make a Self-Watering Plant!
How to make your plant water itself, saving you a lot of hassle and meaning you'll never again forget to water them correctly.
How to Clean and Organize a Leather or Fabric Wallet
Your wallet has more germs than a toilet, but most rarely clean theirs. This guide will walk you through deep cleaning and organizing your wallet.
NEVER Pop These 7 Types of Bumps and Blemishes
When it comes to bumps and blemishes, keep your hands off. Keep your complexion fresh and flawless with these handy tips.
10 Smart Ways to Treat Your Dry Skin!
Suffer from dry skin? You can find these next natural dry skin treating ingredients right in your home...
Make Your Daily Life Easier with These Great Home Tips!
Here are 22 easy to apply tricks will make your life hassle free. Some of them are so simple you’ll wonder why you didn't think of them first.
Get Rid of Excessive Ear Wax with These Easy Home Remedies
Earwax is important for protecting our ear canals, however if our body produces too much of it, it can become a problem. Here are some home remedies.
11 Genius Peanut Butter Life Hacks You Need To Know
Did you know you can use peanut butter as a leather cleaner?
Cowboy Cures: Saddle Up for Immune-Boosting Home Remedies
Watch this video to learn some useful cowboy cures for a healthy life.
12 Things Veterinarians Want Pet Owners to Know
To be in the know, you better read the 12 things that veterinarians want to tell you - the pet owners.
Baby Oil Can Do Things You Never Even Considered!
Baby oil is usually used to keep your baby's skin soft, but in the next article, you'll get ideas for six more effective and surprising ways to use it.
This Common Item is More Helpful Than You Ever Guessed
Binder clips are a very common item at every office and in most houses. But did you know how many functions this simple-looking tool is capable of?
16 Survival Gadgets for Any Emergency Situation
These cool gadgets can be extremely useful in any emergency situation.
These Phone Stand Ideas Are Nothing Short of Awesome
It's way too easy simply to go out and buy your own phone stand - why not have a go at making your own at home? Here are 32 unique phone stand ideas.
9 Ways to Keep Your House Clean Using Just a Simple Lime
Limes are just as good as lemons when it comes to cleaning. Here are 9 great ways to clean with them.
Reaching age 112: People Share Their Long Living Secrets
10 of the oldest people on earth would like to share their secret...
Guide: How to Make a Tasty Fruit Salad In No Time at All...
This video will show you how to quickly chop fruit for those delicious and fresh fruit salads.
10 Essential Sewing Tips You Cannot Do Without
Whether you are experienced at sewing, or a complete novice, here are 15 simple sewing tricks you won't be able to live without.
Seniors Living Alone Should Always Have These Items
Want to make life easier on your elderly loved one who lives alone? Check this list.
The Psychology of Decision Fatigue and How to Avoid It
Follow these tips to start making smart decisions quickly.
21 Sizzling Hot Microwave Tips To Improve Your Life
The microwave is something we use every day, but did you know how many different ways you can use it? Here are 21 surprising uses.
8 Running Mistakes Most of Us Make
Just because you think you know how to run doesn’t mean that you’re doing it correctly – or effectively. Here are 8 mistakes people make when running.
This Memory Technique Could Help You Remember Everything
If you have trouble remembering things, this mnemonic strategy could be just what you're after.
9 Ways to Use Coffee to Make Your Hair and Skin Shine
Caffeine, a familiar component of coffee, can stimulate blood circulation, leading to radiant, healthy, and bright skin.
16 Unique Uses For Coconut Oil Outside the Kitchen
There's more to coconut oil than its incredible health benefits. Here are 16 fantastic ways that it can be used outside the kitchen.
We Bet You're Not Aware of These Real-World Facts
Don't miss this random collection of interesting real-world facts from the world over that you are unlikely to have heard before
Genius Hotel and Packing Tricks You’ll Surely Appreciate
These invaluable tricks will help you get around 18 common traveling problems, particularly those that deal with hotels and luggage packing...
7 Easy, Low-Carb and Guilt-Free Pasta Recipes
Pasta is one of the most popular dishes in the world, and rightfully so – it’s easy to make, delicious, and the sauce options are numerous. Enjoy these 7 recipes that will make your cuisine dreams a reality.
How to Organize Your Fridge Correctly To Save Money!
The fridge is an important part of any kitchen, but do you know how to get the best out of yours? This guide will help you arrange your fridge to maximize its technology and save money!
Driving in Bad Weather Needn't Be Dangerous with These Tips
Drive safely in bad weather by bearing in mind these six essential tips.
10 Super-Effective Tips No One Else Will Tell You About
Fix and do just about anything with the following 10 supercool tips and tricks!
Salt Has Many More Uses & Benefits Than You Ever Imagined
Salt has been in use for thousands of years, and also happens to have thousands of uses. Here's a selection of them that you probably weren't aware of before.
These Tips Will Help You Keep Your Car In Order
These hacks will help you get shinier headlights, organize your interior, and provide a nifty hack to help you remove a small car dent and lots more.
Financial Planning for Widowhood - 7 Important Tips
Losing a spouse can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. But there are some important financial steps you must take immediately.
Learn How to Grow Your Favorite Fruit and Veggies Indoors
All these plants are delicious, packed full of healthy nutrients and easy-to-grow even if you don’t have a yard or garden
Testing 10 Amazon Phone Gadgets: Are They Any Good?
Are these phone gadgets as good as advertised? Let's check it out.