How does a PLU differ from a UPC in grocery operations?

How does a PLU differ from a UPC in grocery operations?

• A. PLU identifies loose or bulk items by weight or description, while UPCs identify packaged items with barcodes.
• B. PLU identifies packaged items; UPC identifies loose items by weight.
• C. PLU is used only for fruit; UPC for all other items.
• D. PLU and UPC are interchangeable terms.

Answer: (A)

PLU codes are used for loose or bulk items that are weighed or described at checkout, while UPC codes are barcodes on packaged goods. When you grab produce by the pound or a bulk item, a PLU is used to identify what item it is and to price it by weight or unit. Stored items that come already packaged have a UPC on the label, which the scanner reads to pull up the exact product and price in the system. For example, a bunch of loose apples uses a PLU, whereas a bag of apples with a UPC on the bag uses that barcode. Organic items often have five-digit PLUs starting with 9. The two codes serve different purposes and aren’t interchangeable.

PLU codes are used for loose or bulk items that are weighed or described at checkout, while UPC codes are barcodes on packaged goods. When you grab produce by the pound or a bulk item, a PLU is used to identify what item it is and to price it by weight or unit. Stored items that come already packaged have a UPC on the label, which the scanner reads to pull up the exact product and price in the system. For example, a bunch of loose apples uses a PLU, whereas a bag of apples with a UPC on the bag uses that barcode. Organic items often have five-digit PLUs starting with 9. The two codes serve different purposes and aren’t interchangeable.