Fruit Label Codes, Types, Legal Requirements, & Uses

When you go out for shopping and notice tiny stickers on the fruits. They are called fruit label stickers. Now the question arises that, what’s the point of them? They help stores track produce to provide basic fruit information to the customer. That information includes, the procedure of growing that particular fruit, which means, that labels don’t just be there to be sticked on the fruit, but they have a reason to be there.

In this blog, we will dive deeply into how to choose the appropriate fruit label for different fruits, what the PLU (Price Look-Up) codes mean, whether it’s safe to eat fruit with or without a sticker, and the legal requirements you need to know. the meaning behind each label numbers and reply to questions such as “Is it safe to consume the fruit with the label sticked on?”

Whether you are a fruit seller, farmer or own a packaging company, opting for the correct fruit label stickers can make a massive difference. However, if you are buying in bulk, collaborating with a wholesale fruit label supplier is the best way to get started.

What are Fruit Label Codes?

You must have noticed 4 to 5 little digit codes on fruit label stickers. Ever wondered what they meant? Well, they are not just random, but they are a part of the PLU code system. The meaning of them is “Price Look-Up”. These numbers enable the cashier to ring up your purchased fruit rightly and also provide you with the information about the growth of the fruit. They are managed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).

Here’s what they mean:

·         3-digit codes – PLU codes in the 3000–3999 range assigned to standard fresh produce items.

• 4-digit codes (e.g.,4011): It means the particular fruit was grown usually using standard farming procedures.
• 5-digit codes starting with 9 (e.g., 94011): This tells that the specific fruit is organic under USDA National Organic Program standards. This is where an organic fruit label introduces itself. This means these fruits were grown under great supervision and are free from dangerous chemicals and pesticides.
• 5-digit codes starting with 8 (e.g.,84011): These were used in the past to show genetically modified (GMO) fruits. However, this label is not widely being sticked anymore.

In a nutshell, the next time you go to the grocery store and see a sticker on any fruit, you will be able to determine its growth place by looking at the fruit label code.

Legal Requirements for Fruit Labels

All PLU codes must be registered with IFPS, and organic stickers (5-digit codes starting with 9) must comply with the USDA’s National Organic Program. Inks, adhesives, and substrates used for fruit label stickers need FDA food-contact approval (21 CFR) or meet EU Regulation No 1935/2004 on materials in contact with food. If you sell across borders, remember Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL) rules, like USMCA requirements in North America or mandatory bilingual labels in Canada.

Types of Fruits and How to Label Them

Different fruits come in various shapes. Therefore, you have to be careful before creating a fruit label sticker.

Apples, Pears and Citrus Fruits

These fruits have smooth textures, which makes them perfect for traditional fruit label stickers. Always remember to use durable and water-proof labels. Why? because if you do so, they won't peel off while washing or being transported.

• Recommend: Sticky paper or plastic labels
• Use fruit label code for hassle-free tracking
• Perfect for including branding or logos

Explore a range of customized self-adhesive labels for this category.

Bananas

The shape of bananas is long and usually sold in bunches. However, they ripen rapidly. Use a label that is adhesive enough to stick well to their soft peel yet easy to take off.

• Use huge fruit label stickers to add more information.
• Make your choice those labels that don’t damage the peel.

Berries and Grapes

Berries and Grapes are typically sold in containers. Therefore, instead of putting labels on each berry and grape individually, put the label sticker directly on the packaging cartons. Don’t worry; it will be the same as labeling a particular fruit separately.

• Add on fruit label code for product details
• Add “organic” tags if it's needed

Avocados and Mango Nutrition Label

These two fruits have uneven skin, making labeling difficult. To get the job done, you will need strong glue to adhere the stickers to uneven parts of the fruit.

• Use flexible mango nutrition label
• Add branding and fruit label code
• Include organic mango nutrition label if possible

Huge Fruits Such as Melons, Pineapples, and Large Fruits

If the fruit is as big as a melon or pineapple, utilize them for other brands’ publicity or even QR codes for more information.

• A wholesale fruit supplier can assist in designing customized large-format label stickers.
• Ideal for occasional branding or sales campaigns

Advanced Label Features Comparison

Tips for Selecting the Correct Fruit Label

Below is a checklist to help you opt for the optimal label:

1.      Fruit Type - Smooth or rough? Huge or tiny? Different fruits need different labels.

2.      Surface Stickiness—Like bananas, stick those label stickers that stick rightly yet come off easily.

3.      Water and temperature Resistance – Fruits are usually washed and stored cold.

4.      Label Size – The fruit should be large enough to read but hide not much of the fruit.

5.      Material Choice – Use eco-friendly paper card stock labels to decrease waste and remove smells from containers.

6.      Supplier – Collaborate with a trust-worthy wholesale fruit label supplier for the sake of quality and cost-efficiency.

Why the Correct Fruit Label Matters

Opting for the correct label isn’t just about looking good. It dramatically impacts how your fruit is stored, displayed, and sold. For farmers and retailers, here is what a good fruit label sticker means:

• Concise Product Information
• Improved branding
• Easier checkout
• Better traceability

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you Eat a Fruit that Has no Label on It?

This is a frequently asked question, and we reply to you with yes. It is totally safe to eat the food with no label on it.

Is it Safe to Consume a Fruit Without Removing its Sticker?

Yes, it is safe to consume a fruit with a sticker on it. Nonetheless, it’s beneficial to take it off before biting the fruit. In other words, mistakenly eating the fruit with the label on it won’t damage you in any way. But peeling it off before eating a particular fruit would be better.

We are providing a few tips below:

• Before consuming a fruit, wash it properly, even if you are supposed to peel it off.
• Check under the label as sometimes, dirt, dust, or bacteria can collect there.

In a Nutshell

Opting for the correct fruit label stickers might seem small, but it has a huge impact. From helping customers understand what they're purchasing to launching your brand, labels matter a great deal.

Whether you are labeling an apple or a packet of blueberries, always keep in mind:

• The fruit’s texture
• Whether it's organic or not
• At what location and how the fruit will be sold

·        Consider adding Advanced options like barcode labels or QR code traceability

Moreover, don’t forget to collaborate with a trusted fruit label supplier. It can save your valuable time, money, and headaches. You will get better fruits, expert help, and all the fruit label codes you need to make your business successful.