CASTLE ROCK, CO - JUNE 2, 2025 - Where Food Comes From, Inc. (WFCF) (Nasdaq: WFCF), the most trusted resource for independent, third-party verification of food production practices in North America, is proud to announce the release of the Upcycled Certified® Standard Version 3.0 - a major update to the world’s first certification program for upcycled food and ingredients.
As interest in circular food systems accelerates, Version 3.0 sets a new benchmark for transparency, rigor, and global applicability in the fight against food waste. The updated Standard builds on the success of the Upcycled Certified® program, which has already verified hundreds of products and ingredients across food, beverage, personal care, and pet food categories.
“Upcycled Certified® has helped create a new industry of waste reduction innovation,” said Leann Saunders, President and COO of Where Food Comes From, Inc. “Version 3.0 raises the bar and provides businesses with clear, credible guidelines, and gives consumers the confidence they need to choose products that align with their values.”
Developed through extensive stakeholder input, real-world implementation, and a thorough public comment process, Version 3.0 reinforces WFCF’s commitment to advancing credible sustainability solutions across the food supply chain.
Key enhancement in Version 3.0 include:
Streamlined language and terminology to support scalability and integrity.
Emphasis on clear, auditable elements essential to applying the Standard consistently across diverse supply chains, regions, production technologies, and Upcycled ingredients and items.
The introduction of Secondary Waste and net tonnage components to expand transparency and scope of the food waste diversion impact within upcycling supply chains.
Expanded eligibility for international applicants.
“This version reflects both market maturity and the evolving needs of sustainability-driven companies,” said Kathryn Britton, EVP of Customer Experience, Where Food Comes From, Inc. “It also signals that upcycling is here to stay - not as a trend, but as a transformative solution to food system waste.”
Upcycled Certified® Standard Version 3.0 is now available at www.wherefoodcomesfrom.com/upcycled
Where Food Comes From, Inc. is America’s trusted resource for third party verification of food production practices. Through proprietary technology and patented business processes, the Company estimates that it supports more than 17,500 farmers, ranchers, vineyards, wineries, processors, retailers, distributors, trade associations, consumer brands and restaurants with a wide variety of value-added services. Through its IMI Global, Validus Verification Services, SureHarvest, WFCF Organic, and Postelsia divisions, Where Food Comes From services verify food claims, optimize production practices and enable food supply chains with analytics and data driven insights.
