SCS Global Services Launches Non‑UPF Verification to Help Shoppers Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods
Applications now open for brands seeking independent verification under the Non‑GMO Project’s new standard
With more consumers looking for foods made with simple ingredients and minimal processing, SCS Global Services (SCS) today announced that it has been approved as a verification body for the Non‑Ultra Processed Foods (Non‑UPF) Verification Program. Starting today, companies can officially apply for Non‑UPF Verification through SCS, enabling them to clearly signal that their products avoid ultra‑processing techniques and ingredients. Developed by the Non-GMO Project, the Non-UPF Verification Program establishes the first standardized, third-party–verified framework designed to confirm that products do not meet specific criteria for “ultra-processed.” The program is gaining rapid traction as manufacturers and retailers look for credible ways to distinguish minimally processed foods and meet evolving consumer expectations.
"We're proud to offer Non-UPF Verification as part of our comprehensive suite of food certification services," said Lucy Anderson, Director of Product Claims Certification at SCS Global Services. "This program directly supports our mission to strengthen trust in the food system by providing rigorous, science-based verification. Brands are seeking reliable ways to demonstrate their commitment to ingredient integrity, minimal processing, and greater transparency. Non-UPF Verification helps them communicate that commitment clearly and confidently”.
Olyra, a participant in the Non-UPF Verification pilot program and among the first brands to achieve certification for one of its breakfast foods, exemplifies the standard’s value for mission-driven food companies.
“At Olyra, we’re always focused on creating foods made from real, thoughtfully sourced ingredients using simple, traditional processes”, said Katerina Aithra Sterioti, Product & R&D Manager of Olyra. “As awareness around ultra-processed foods has grown, we saw Non-UPF Verification as an opportunity to objectively validate what we already practice, keeping our formulations free from unnecessary processing or industrial additives. The Non-UPF Verified mark helps consumers more easily identify products made without ultra-processing and reinforces our commitment to transparency through independent, third-party validation.”
As an approved verification body, SCS Global Services will assess food and beverage products against the Non-UPF standard, examining processing methods, ingredient composition, nutritional value, and the presence of additives commonly associated with ultra-processing. Products that meet the criteria may display the Non-UPF Verified mark, signaling their alignment with minimally processed production practices and supporting informed purchasing decisions. Annual evaluation is required to maintain certification status.
Companies already working with SCS may bundle Non-UPF Verification with services such as Non-GMO Project Verification, USDA Organic, SQF, BRCGS, Gluten-Free, or Plant-Based Certification to unlock significant cost savings and operational efficiencies.
Join Our Webinar:
To learn more about Non-UPF Verification and how it can benefit your brand, join SCS for a complimentary webinar, “Non-Ultra Processed Foods (Non-UPF) Verification: Requirements, Process & Benefits” on Feb 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM PT. Register here.
To learn more about Non-UPF Verification or to begin the certification process, visit www.scsglobalservices.com/services/non-ultra-processed-foods-non-upf-verification
About SCS Global Services
SCS Global Services is an international leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, certification, auditing, and standards development with over 40 years of experience. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies, and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a California-chartered Benefit Corporation, reflecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. SCS is also a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principles-based approach to responsible business. For more information, visit www.SCSGlobalServices.com.