The Non-UPF Verified Standard
The Non-UPF Verified Standard offers a clear, evidence-based framework rooted in research and aligned with growing consumer demand for transparency in food processing. It identifies products that avoid the core hallmarks of ultraprocessing — including engineered additives and industrial methods that degrade food structure and function. The Non-UPF Standard defines a middle ground where convenience and nourishment can genuinely coexist, giving brands a path to make better food and shoppers a reason to trust it.
Why We Need a Standard
Modern food production has become increasingly dominated by ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) — products made with highly engineered ingredients and industrial methods that disrupt the natural structure of food.
The Non-UPF Verified Standard provides a clear and actionable alternative by:
Encouraging innovation rooted in whole, minimally processed ingredients.
Restricting harmful or unnecessary additives that undermine food quality or health.
Empowering consumers and retailers to make transparent, values-driven choices.
Defining measurable criteria for processing methods, ingredient integrity, and formulation thresholds.
By focusing on processing integrity, the Non-UPF Standard helps shift the food system toward products that preserve healthy and holistic farming practices through mindful formulation and processing.
The Non-UPF Verification Framework
The Non-UPF Verified Standard (Version 1.0) establishes clear, evidence-based criteria for identifying foods that avoid excessive industrial processing and engineered additives.
It provides the foundation for Non-UPF Verification, enabling brands, retailers, and manufacturers to align their products with a transparent and credible definition of non-ultraprocessed.
Version 1.0 of the Standard was published on November 3, 2025, and serves as a living document — designed to evolve in response to emerging science, consumer insight, and practical application.
By downloading a copy of the Non-UPF Verified Standard, you understand and agree that you are permitted to do so solely for your personal use (i.e., to review the Standard) and that you do not have any other rights in or to the Non-UPF Verified Standard, including without limitation, any right to further reproduce or display, post, or distribute the Non-UPF Verified Standard for any reason.
How the Standard Is Maintained
The Non-UPF Verified Standard is governed by a multi-stakeholder, consensus-based process led by the Non-GMO Project, which serves as program administrator and will undergo regular public revisions. This approach allows the Standard to evolve in line with new research, ingredient trends, and stakeholder feedback.
Revisions may be made on an as-needed cadence until the framework is stable enough for scheduled review cycles.
All updates will be published on this page, ensuring full transparency and accessibility.
Anyone can contribute feedback.
Public comments are accepted at any time and considered in the next revision cycle.
The Non-UPF Verified Standard depends on collaboration across the food ecosystem. Stakeholders include: food and beverage manufacturers, ingredient suppliers and processors, retailers and distributors, scientists and nutrition researchers, health professionals, and consumer advocates.
Stakeholder Involvement
This diverse participation ensures the Standard remains meaningful, achievable, and credible —balancing scientific rigor with real-world feasibility.