The Next Time You Buy Apples, Check the Sticker—Is It Canadian? 🍏

Ever grabbed an apple at the grocery store without thinking twice? Next time, take a closer look at that tiny sticker—it might just tell you where your apple comes from! And if you’re in Canada, there’s a good chance you’ll want to support Canadian apples instead of biting into an import.

What Do Those Apple Stickers Mean?

That little sticker isn’t just there to annoy you when you’re trying to peel it off. It holds valuable information! The number on it is called a Price Look-Up (PLU) code, and it helps stores identify the type of apple and how it was grown.

• Four-digit PLU (e.g., 4131) – Conventionally grown apple
• Five-digit PLU starting with 9 (e.g., 94131) – Organic apple

But here’s the catch—PLU codes don’t tell you the country of origin. So how can you be sure your apple is truly Canadian-grown?

How to Spot Canadian Apples 🍁

Instead of relying on the PLU alone, look for labels that say “Product of Canada” or the name of the farm. Many grocery stores in Canada highlight locally grown apples, so keep an eye out for those signs!

🍏 Support Local Apple Farms Across Canada

Canada is home to hundreds of orchards producing fresh, high-quality apples, and many of them focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly farming. Here are just a few examples of Canadian apple growers making a difference:

• Algoma Orchards (Ontario) – One of Canada’s largest apple producers, Algoma Orchards grows, packs, and ships apples year-round. Their commitment to sustainability includes solar-powered operations, water-efficient irrigation, and eco-friendly pest control.
• Nature’s First Fruit (British Columbia) – Located in the Similkameen Valley, this farm specializes in organic apple production, ensuring fresh, chemical-free fruit while prioritizing natural and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Vermeer Orchards (Ontario) – A family-run farm that takes pride in producing high-quality apples while focusing on environmentally responsible and sustainable farming methods.

These are just a few of the many apple farms across Canada working hard to bring fresh, local fruit to your table. By choosing Canadian apples, you’re not only getting better-tasting, fresher fruit but also supporting local farmers and eco-friendly agriculture.

🍎 Here’s Why Buying Local Apples Makes a Difference

✅ Fresher apples 🍏 – Imported apples can spend weeks in transit, losing flavor and freshness. Canadian apples are harvested and delivered to stores much faster.

✅ Sustainable farming 🌱 – Many Canadian orchards prioritize eco-friendly practices like solar power, water-saving irrigation, and natural pest control, reducing environmental impact.

✅ Lower carbon footprint 🌍 – Fewer food miles mean less transportation pollution, making Canadian apples a greener choice.

✅ Supports Canadian farmers 💰 – Your purchase helps keep local agriculture thriving, strengthening small businesses and communities instead of relying on large international corporations.

Next Time You Shop…

Take a second to check that apple sticker! Look for “Product of Canada” and choose local. It’s a simple choice that makes a big impact—on taste, freshness, and sustainability. 🍎

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References:

1. PLU Code Guide – IFPS
2. Ontario Apple Growers
3. Algoma Orchards