The organization contributed to the pilot program and now serves as a technical administrator for both Non-GMO Project Verified and Non-UPF Verified
NSF, a leading global organization dedicated to protecting human health, is now certifying food products to the Non-GMO Project’s Non-Ultraprocessed Foods (UPF) Verified program.The service launch follows recent federal dietary guidance calling for fewer UPFs.
“The Non-UPF Verified program provides retailers, brands and shoppers with a clear, credible way of avoiding ultraprocessed foods, which can impact human health and increase risks of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and cancer,” said Carey Allen, Director of Food Claims at NSF. “As a technical administrator, NSF conducts independent, evidence-based evaluations, ensuring that Non-UPF Verified products meet stringent criteria in ingredient integrity and processing limits.”
The Non-UPF Verified program establishes a clear, evidence-based framework informed by the Food Integrity Collective’s work to address gaps in marketplace alignment around food processing. Verified products must be composed primarily of minimally or moderately processed ingredients and rely on permissible methods. Furthermore, engineered additives associated with UPFs are restricted or prohibited, with added sugar thresholds for various food categories.
Spindrift Beverage Co., Inc. recently became the first company to receive the Non-UPF Verified certification from NSF. The popular sparkling water brand, which is the only verified beverage brand, will soon showcase both the Non-GMO and Non-UPF Verified marks, delivered by NSF, on its website, digital channels and packaging of its beverage products.
“This verification gives consumers a clear, credible validation in a category that’s become increasingly confusing, where many beverages rely on artificial ingredients, sweeteners and unnecessary processing,” said Dave Burwick, CEO of Spindrift. “Spindrift has always been built on a simple ingredient list — rooted in real squeezed fruit and sparkling water. Not only are these ingredients better for you, but also, we believe great taste doesn’t require anything else. Non-UPF Verified reinforces that philosophy and helps make our approach easier to recognize on shelf.”
NSF has long served as a technical administrator for the Non-GMO Project Verified program. Non-UPF Verified certification is a sensible add-on to Non-GMO Verified products carrying the signature Butterfly seal, further demonstrating a food product’s commitment to quality. The program formally launched in January after a successful pilot program with participating brands and technical administrators, including NSF. Through its role as a technical administrator, NSF supports brands seeking independent verification against the program’s rigorous standards.
“Transparency and independent verification are foundational to building trust in our food system,” said Megan Westgate, CEO and Founder of the Non-GMO Project. “Third-party technical administrators are essential partners in this work, helping ensure that programs like Non-UPF Verified are implemented with consistency and rigor. Through collaboration with experienced organizations such as NSF, we’re supporting brands in meeting clear standards and giving shoppers reliable information they can trust.”
Certification to Non-UPF Verified involves several steps, including discovery and scoping, technical submission, independent evaluation, verification decision and ongoing change control. Once verified, products may display the Non-UPF Verified mark on packaging.
Learn more about NSF and Non-UPF Verified.
