# #255 - Mini episode: Non-UPF Verified Update

- Show: [The Startup CPG Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast)
- Published: 2026-06-30
- Length: 12m
- Episode: 331
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2026-06-30-255-mini-episode-non-upf-verified-update
- Listen: https://share.transistor.fm/s/f0d60d7c

## Summary

Hans Eisenbeis, Director of Mission and Messaging at Non-UPF Verified, provides an update on the organization's certification program for ultra-processed foods (UPFs) following its major rollout at Expo West. He explains that Non-UPF Verified distinguishes itself by auditing manufacturing methods rather than relying solely on ingredient lists, citing palm oil processing as a key example. The conversation covers the program's specific standards for added sugar limits by category, prohibited processes like hydrogenation, and the varying readiness of brands in beverages, frozen foods, and plant-based alternatives to meet these criteria.

## Outline

1. Introduction and Expo West Rollout
2. The Gap Between Ingredient Lists and Processing
3. Non-UPF Verification Methodology and Standards
4. Impact on Beverages, Frozen Foods, and Plant-Based Categories

## Topics

- [Certification & compliance](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/certification-and-compliance)
- [Materials & manufacturing processes](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/materials-and-processes)

## Most relevant to

early-stage companies

## Mentioned

- Non-UPF Verified (company)
- Non-GMO Project (company)
- Spindrift (product)
- Amy's (product)

## Related episodes from other shows

- [48 - Aimy Steadman, Co Founder and CGSDO at Future Proof](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/people-of-packaging/2021-02-02-48-aimy-steadman-co-founder-and-cgsdo-at-future-proof) (People of Packaging)
- [215 - Jason Burke on his Noble and Primal journey to disrupt a broken food system](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/people-of-packaging/2023-09-26-215-jason-burke-on-his-noble-and-primal-journey-to-disrupt-a-broken-food-system) (People of Packaging)
- [203 - LIVE at Cosmoprof talking packaging sustainability and transparency with Brandon Frank](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/people-of-packaging/2023-07-14-203-live-at-cosmoprof-talking-packaging-sustainability-and-transparency-with-bra) (People of Packaging)
- [183 - Compostable Packaging with Jason Friday from Bar U Eat](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/people-of-packaging/2023-03-10-183-compostable-packaging-with-jason-friday-from-bar-u-eat) (People of Packaging)
- [312 - Jason Christensen from Blue Unicorn, the best protein bar on the planet?](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/people-of-packaging/2025-06-10-312-jason-christensen-from-blue-unicorn-the-best-protein-bar-on-the-planet) (People of Packaging)

## Citing this page

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