The number 8 and the number 9: the two most important digits on fruits and vegetables

When at the supermarket you may have noticed that every piece of fruit and produce on it these days has a number on it.  These numbers are registered with the International Federation for Produce Standards. 

Their standards allow organically grown produce to be marked with a Product Look Up code (PLU) beginning with the number "9", while Genetically Engineered or Modified  produce (GMO) produce should be marked with a PLU beginning with the number "8".

Of course in the United States sellers are not required to tell you if their produce is genetically modified but if it has an accurate PLU sticker on it, the PLU number will begin with 8.  Remembering these codes will allow you to seek out or avoid organic and genetically modified produce depending on your preference.