Spindrift Becomes First Beverage Brand to Secure Non-Ultraprocessed (Non-UPF) Verification

Spindrift Beverage Co., Inc. has announced a significant regulatory milestone, becoming the first and only beverage brand to verify its entire portfolio under the Non-Ultraprocessed Food (Non-UPF) Verified Standard.

The certification covers the company’s full product range, including Spindrift® Sparkling Water and Spindrift® SODA. The move is designed to provide third-party validation for the brand's "clean label" positioning, addressing rising consumer concerns regarding the health implications of ultra-processed foods.

The Anti-UPF Movement

The announcement comes amidst a broader shift in consumption habits, where shoppers are increasingly scrutinising product formulations for industrial additives. Spindrift reports that it is currently growing four times faster than the flavoured sparkling water category, a metric it attributes to this demand for minimally processed beverages.

Until now, the beverage aisle has lacked a unified standard to help consumers navigate processing levels. The Non-UPF Verified Standard, developed by the Non-GMO Project, aims to fill this transparency gap by setting clear limits on high-impact processing and the use of synthetic sweeteners or industrial texturizers.

Dave Burwick, CEO of Spindrift, positioned the verification as a necessary tool for consumer education:

"This verification matters because it helps people clearly identify beverages made without the large amounts of industrial additives, artificial sweeteners, and heavy processing that now define much of the beverage aisle. From day one, we built Spindrift with a focus on real squeezed fruit, bubbles and water — because it delivers better taste and because simple, recognisable ingredients are better for you."

Megan Westgate, Founder and CEO of the Non-GMO Project, added:

"Consumers want foods and beverages made closer to their natural state. The Non-UPF Verified Standard gives brands like Spindrift a clear, credible way to demonstrate that commitment and helps shoppers navigate processing with confidence."

Implementation Timeline

Spindrift will begin integrating the Non-UPF Verified branding onto its packaging in a phased rollout.

Early 2026: The seal will appear on Spindrift® SODA packaging, website, and digital channels.
Late Summer 2026: The branding will extend to the Sparkling Water portfolio.