PLU code

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An apple of the “Cripps Pink” variety, characteristic “large”, PLU code 4130

The PLU code (also PLU number ; from English price look-up code , price look-up code ) is an identification number for products.

The International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS) has been managing code numbers for products from the fruit and vegetable sector since 2001. The assignment of PLU codes for types of fruit and vegetables is intended to simplify the inventory and checkout of these products. In 2010, over 1300 PLU codes were assigned. The numbers are usually four or five digits. In the case of five-digit numbers, the prefix 9 indicates organically grown products, for example the PLU code 94011 denotes a certain type of organic bananas. Initially, the prefix 8 was intended to identify genetically modified products, but was not used. In the meantime, 83000 numbers are assigned for conventional and 84000 numbers also for organic products.

The same type of fruit or vegetable can have different PLU codes assigned if the goods are to be differentiated according to size, weight or color, for example

  • 4128 apples “Cripps Pink”, small (less than 205 g);
  • 4130 “Cripps Pink” apples, large (from 205 g).

The fruit or vegetable is provided with a sticker, which is usually oval in shape, with the appropriate number. The goods can then be identified at the checkout or during the inventory using the PLU code. For example, different types of red apples can be calculated correctly at different prices per kilogram.

Before the series introduction of scanner cash registers, there were chain stores, for example Aldi-Nord, which used PLU codes for all types of goods (including the non-food sector). This learning-intensive, but cost-saving price entry method was partially abolished there in 2003 with the introduction of scanner registers; they are still used in the food sector.

Vouchers from fast food restaurants usually also have a number marked with PLU codes, which the employees can use to check the validity in the respective branch and enter the correct price.

The catering works with PLU codes, whereby the service can either enter the number (example: 42 for a water) or select the item sold (the water) from a database (item master).

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ http://www.ifpsglobal.com/Portals/22/IFPS%20Documents/PLU%20FAQ/PLU%20Site%20FAQs%20Aug%202015%20v2.pdf
  2. ↑ Konrad Lischka: 30 years of barcode: These 13 digits organize the world in: Der Spiegel from July 4th 2007.
  3. ↑ Burkhard Strassmann: Kassenschlager: Kassensturz , in: Die Zeit No. 42 of October 9, 2003.

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