Produce Codes Explained

Organically grown peppers.

Over the past few years I have heard a lot about genetically modified produce and other products too, but today I just want to explain the produce codes so you will know what they are and what they mean, if you don't already.

All of the produce sold in your local grocery will have a code number on it.  Sometimes it is just a little sticker.  Here is what they mean as far as how they were produced.

Organically produced produce has a 5 digit code and it will start with a 9.

Conventionally produced produce has a 4 digit code and it will start with a 4.

Genetically modified produce has a 5 digit code and it will start with an 8.

I tend to want to shy away from the genetically modified versions because I do not feel they have been around long enough to be able to judge what the long term effects, if any, there are going to be.  Call me old fashioned.  I am.   But,  I am the same way about a lot of the, "new and improved" that comes screaming down the pike!!!

How many times has there been a new study,  a new drug,  a new finding or thing that turns out to be what it was touted as at it's inception?  Sometimes with deadly results.

Then there are those who will say that the government has said it is safe and a good thing.  Well don't look now but the government has us in quite a pickle at the moment.  It is my contention that the military is about the only thing where the government is highly efficient.

So I am passing along the information so you can think about it and decide for yourself how you want to spend your food dollars.