Key Takeaways:
- Acquisition of Upcycled Certified® Program: Where Food Comes From, Inc. (WFCF) has acquired the Upcycled Certified Program from the Upcycled Food Association, marking a significant expansion in its certification offerings.
- Impact of Upcycled Certified: The program is the world’s first and largest certification provider for upcycled food, with 93 companies and over 480 products certified. It has contributed to diverting an average of 390,000 tons of waste annually.
- Consumer Demand and Market Growth: The upcycled food trend is increasingly popular, with 51% of consumers more likely to buy products identified as Upcycled Certified. The upcycled industry is valued at over $46 billion and growing.
- Future Objectives: WFCF aims to make the standard more accessible and cost-effective for brands and retailers, expanding the offering of upcycled products and significantly impacting waste and sustainability.
A Pioneering Move in Food Sustainability
Where Food Comes From, Inc. (WFCF), a leading authority in food production verification, has announced its strategic acquisition of the Upcycled Certified® Program from the Upcycled Food Association. This move places WFCF at the forefront of the growing trend of upcycled food, a sector reshaping how we perceive and utilize resources.
The Rise of Upcycled Certified
Upcycled Certified has established itself as a crucial player in the industry by validating products that efficiently use the entire food chain, thereby reducing waste. Its certification seal on over 480 products from 93 companies, including giants like Del Monte and Kerry Ingredients, represents a successful model for sustainability and consumer trust.
Consumer Trends and Market Acceptance
The program’s success is backed by consumer behavior; 51% of shoppers are more inclined to purchase Upcycled Certified products. This trend is part of a broader movement towards sustainability that’s gaining momentum across various sectors, driven by consumer awareness and the urgent need to address food waste.
Strategic Goals and Expansion
John Saunders, CEO of WFCF, emphasized the alignment of the upcycled food movement with broader sustainability trends and WFCF’s commitment to expanding the reach and impact of the Upcycled Certified standard. WFCF aims to significantly reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable system by making it easier and more cost-effective for stakeholders to participate.
Collaboration for a Transformative Future
Angie Crone, CEO of the Upcycled Food Association, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, highlighting the necessity of collaborative efforts to address the global waste crisis. With WFCF’s extensive reach and reputation, the Upcycled Certified Program is poised for accelerated growth and impact.
Commitment to a Sustainable Food System
This acquisition represents a strategic business move for WFCF and a commitment to a sustainable future. As the industry continues to evolve, WFCF and the Upcycled Certified Program lead the charge in creating a more efficient and responsible food economy.
Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash
