Non-Ultraprocessed Foods verification is coming

The Non-GMO Project recently announced that 16 major food brands have joined its pilot program to develop the industry’s first comprehensive Non-Ultraprocessed Foods (Non-UPF) Verification.

More than 200 brands have expressed interest in the certification, signaling industry momentum to address ultraprocessed foods. UPFs now comprise over half of calories consumed in Western countries. Awareness of the issue has caused some legislators and regulators to consider defining, labeling, or restricting ultraprocessed foods

The pilot stems from the Non-GMO Project’s Food Integrity Collective, launched in August 2024 to co-create alternatives to the industrial food system. During the Collective’s gatherings, food system leaders identified a critical gap: the absence of any industry standard for food processing transparency, despite growing consumer demand and mounting health concerns.

Megan Westgate, CEO of the Non-GMO Project, said, “Our expertise in complex food systems, certification standards, and education puts us in a unique position to address the challenge of ultraprocessed foods.”

Westgate draws a direct line between GMOs and UPFs: “Both genetically modified organisms and UPFs are deeply disconnected from natural food sources. Consumers deserve the same level of transparency and choice about ultraprocessed ingredients that we have provided for genetically engineered ones.”

Industry coalition spans market segments

The 16-brand pilot cohort includes companies ranging from startups with annual revenues under $5 million to established brands generating more than $1 billion, demonstrating broad industry awareness of ultraprocessed foods and their impact on human and environmental health. Participating brands include Amy’s Kitchen, Bear, Califia Farms, Caulipower, Heray Spice, Levelle Nutrition, Olyra, One Mighty Mill, Simple Mills, Spindrift, and YES Bar.

“We’re excited to participate in the pilot launch of the Non-UPF verification program. This is an important step forward in helping beverage consumers identify the level of processing that occurs during manufacturing,” said Jon Silverman, senior vice president of innovation & business development at Sprindrift.

Research increasingly links ultraprocessed foods to increased risks of chronic diseases, including obesity, heart disease, and cognitive decline. A 2024 study by the Non-GMO Project found that 85% of shoppers want to avoid ultraprocessed foods, yet struggle to identify them. The Non-UPF Verified program aims to provide a clear, trusted standard, similar to the Non-GMO Project’s iconic Butterfly label.

Food manufacturers and brands interested in joining the waitlist for program updates can register at www.nonultraprocessed.org.

Organic & Non-GMO Insights August 2025