How to Identify Genetically Modied foods at the Supermarket

Sorry, but this is an urban myth - based on fact, and a stupid recommendation by a semi-quango.

The main problem with this is that prefacing the PLU (Product Look Up) code with the number 8 is a voluntary suggestion by the IFPS (International Federation for Produce Standards) and the use of PLU's is simply a way, organised by the PMA (Produce Marketing Association) for shops to be able to distinguish what the product is. That's why, if you use a self checkout at your supermarket and there isn't a bar code on the product you can enter the PLU code from the label.

Being able to distinguish GM products from the PLU is an urban myth. Producers are unlikely to preface produce with the 8 as they wouldn't want to affect their sales figures. So don't bother to waste your time looking for it.

Whereas, organic food producers are likely to add the 9 as there is a remote chance that a consumer might look for it in order to prefer such a product.

 

I presume that is where you got your info from.

As I said, it's correct but doesn't help at all as none of the GM companies will, understandably, put the prefix number on the produce. The PLU numbering system is only a system to make things easier for shops to identify their products. It's not a requirement but just to help with their stock.

Very similar to the 'Sell By' date on products. These are simply a stock rotation system for internal use by the retailer. Neither system has anything to do with regulations and is simply recommended by trade organisations.

The 'Urban Myth' part of my comment was to do with the fact that the number 8 is never used and is, therefore, a totally useless thing to ask consumers to look for.

No offence intended by my comment as the recommendations are in place but never used - therefore not really a way to ID GM foods.