When it comes to groceries, we usually pay attention to the brand and the expiry date, but when it comes to fruits and vegetables most of us pick the ripe ones that look appealing to the eye. The truth is that fruits and vegetables are also labeled, but not many pay attention to those numbers mostly because they don’t even know what they stand for.
Numbers on fruit stickers like 9
Numbers on fruits serve more than the single purpose of identify how much the item should ring up. In fact, they provide valuable information about the product. If you notice fruit stickers starting with the numbers 9, out of five digits, it indicates that the fruit has been grown organically.
Number 8
If the five-digit number the fruit is labeled with starts with the number 8, it means the product has been genetically modified. GMO foods are controversial as many believe they cause and trigger allergies. This technology is often used in agriculture to enhance the resistance of crops to pests and diseases, improve tolerance to herbicides, or increase nutritional content.
Currently, researchers still investigate the long-term effects, if any, on humans. Some of the most notable GMO fruits are papayas, apples, plums, strawberries, and grapes, among the rest.
4-digit code
A 4-digit code starting with either number 3 or 4 signifies the food isn’t organically grown. Instead, it has likely been “conventionally grown.” The meaning of conventionally grown food refers to the way they are fertilized. While organic produce uses organic matter like compost and is mechanically or biologically treated for weeds, conventional methods use synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
The debate about the environmental impacts and possible future health complications involving conventional food-growth methods is ongoing.
Dr. Tamika D. Sims, the senior director of food technology communications in Atlanta Georgia, says both organic and synthetic fertilizers have been “federally regulated.”
According to him, people shouldn’t worry about the numbers on fruits and vegetables they consume but rather focus on reaching a well-balanced diet with a variety of foods needed for good health.
When it comes to picking the right fruits and vegetables, the number of digits also matters. A 4 or 5-digit number indicates where and how the food was grown, in addition to the size and type of food purchased, but when the product is labeled with a sticker consisting of more than five digits, it means it’s not included in the “internationally standardized system.”
For most, going grocery shopping is a dull task they tend to complete as swiftly as possible.
However, knowing that the food we consume is crucial for our survival and maintaining our health and fitness, we should all pay more attention when choosing the food we purchase. The International Federation for Produce Standards is dedicated to “improving supply chain efficiency” which involves, among other responsibilities, ensuring the provision of high-quality ingredients and “establishing and unifying international standards.”
This system was first implemented during the 90’s, when stickers on fruits and vegetables were added. Categorizing these items with numerical codes was to guarantee high quality. The IFPS has issued more than 1,400 such codes. However, since the system is optional, not all fruits and vegetables in stores have been inspected or approved by the IFPS or meet global standards.
Those people who care of the choice of food they consume can find the knowledge behind the meaning of numbers on fruits and vegetables useful. This knowledge can also expedite the self-checkout process by simply entering the PLU code instead of searching for the item by name. The PLU code system is an excellent method to track the delicious and nutritious foods that travel worldwide.
Kelly Ripa, 53, Displays Her Figure as She Rocks Sheer Black Gown, Igniting Reactions from Fans
Recently, Mark Consuelos and Kelly Ripa attracted attention on the Oscars red carpet. Some people believed their look at the awards ceremony was subpar, while others thought it was excellent. Supporters posted their opinions on social media.
At the recent Oscars, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos captivated the show with their stunning display of elegance and beauty. In a picture that went viral on Instagram, Ripa showed off her body in a Jason Wu translucent black gown that was perfectly styled by Audrey Slater and exquisitely beaded. In a traditional tuxedo, Consuelos stood erect at her side and radiated elegance. A personal touch was provided by Ripa’s lighthearted caption, “Mom and dad storming the red carpet.”
A wide range of emotions were expressed in response to Ripa’s wardrobe decision, reflecting the varied sentiments of her sizable fan base. Some admirers expressed their gratitude with remarks like “OMG!!! That dress!!!” and “Kelly, your hair, the dress… you look stunning,” emphasizing how well-liked her appearance was.
Some gave insightful criticism or personal remarks, such as the direct “I love you Kelly but not this dress.” However, it was evident that Ripa’s ability to shine through was widely acknowledged by her audience, as evidenced by the compliment, “Kelly, you especially shine through in that beautiful dress.”
Ripa, who is well-known for her dedication to health and fitness, has never hidden how important exercise is to her. “I’m glad for those who don’t have to work out, but I have to work out because of my body type,” the woman said. Her exercise program consists of a combination of running, SoulCycle, and dance-cardio class AKT. She states that these activities are essential for both her physical and emotional well-being. She has even spent more than a decade working with her personal trainer.
Beyond the gym, Ripa takes a holistic approach to health, emphasizing diet, which has had a significant impact on her life. She believes that maintaining a high-alkaline diet keeps her pain-free and full of energy. Ripa shows a practical and long-lasting approach to health and fitness by balancing her indulgences—such as wine and coffee—with periods of severe commitment to her diet.
At home, Ripa’s culinary explorations infuse her family’s life with humility and comedy. Her family and friends appreciate the delight and work she puts into her meals, even though she freely admits that she is not a great chef.
The Ripa-Consuelos family has good taste in fashion, which is evident in their daughter Lola Consuelos, whose distinct look gives her parents amusement as well as pride. Even though Ripa and Consuelos are fashion icons in their own right, they jokingly admit that Lola is solely responsible for her sense of style. This often leaves them in awe of her natural elegance and occasionally makes them doubt their own sense of style.
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