what does 613588 mean on dole organic bananas

jangame

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15-04-2025

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Decoding the Dole Organic Banana Code: What Does 613588 Mean?

What does 613588 mean on Dole Organic Bananas? This seemingly random number is actually a crucial piece of information for traceability and quality control within the Dole food supply chain. It's not a code with a simple, readily available translation like "best by" date. Instead, it's a complex identifier linking the specific bunch of bananas to its origin, growing conditions, and handling processes.

Understanding Produce Codes: Many large food producers use similar PLU (Price Look-Up) codes or internal tracking codes on their produce. These codes aren't meant for consumer decryption in the same way that a UPC barcode is. Instead, they provide critical data points throughout the distribution chain. This enables Dole to:

• Trace the bananas back to their source: This includes the specific farm, plantation, and even the specific harvesting crew. This traceability is vital for identifying and addressing potential issues with quality or safety.
• Monitor growing conditions: The code may implicitly reflect details about the growing region’s climate, irrigation techniques, and fertilizer use.
• Track handling and transportation: The code follows the bananas through the entire journey from the farm to the store, allowing Dole to monitor temperature, handling procedures, and transportation times. This helps ensure the bananas arrive in optimal condition.
• Maintain quality control: By tracking all aspects of the banana's journey, Dole can pinpoint any potential problems that may affect the quality or safety of the fruit.

Why isn't the code publicly decipherable? Dole, like other large food producers, keeps the specific meanings of these internal codes confidential. This protects their proprietary information, including farming practices and supply chain logistics. Publicly revealing the full meaning of the code could compromise their competitive advantage and potentially open them up to security risks.

What you can learn from the code: While you can't decode 613588 directly, its presence indicates that Dole is committed to traceability and quality control. This is reassuring for consumers concerned about the origins and handling of their food.

How to find more information: If you have specific concerns about the quality or origin of your Dole organic bananas, you can:

• Contact Dole directly: Their website usually has a customer service section where you can inquire about their practices.
• Look for additional information on the packaging: Beyond the code, the packaging should provide information about the organic certification, origin (country/region), and possibly best-by date.

In conclusion, the code 613588 on your Dole Organic bananas serves as a unique identifier within their internal tracking system. While its exact meaning isn't publicly available, its presence signifies Dole's commitment to traceability and quality control throughout the supply chain. For specific information, contacting Dole directly remains the most reliable approach.