Trade Group Launches Plant-Based Food Certification Program

This week, trade group Plant Based Food Association (PBFA) launched the “Certified Plant Based” food certification program. The 126-member group will work with certifying agency NSF International to distribute plant-based seals to companies, particularly those working to replace animal foods with plant-based alternatives, that meet its rigorous protocol. “The launch of the Certified Plant Based seal is an exciting next step for the fast-growing and innovative plant-based foods industry,” PBFA executive director Michele Simon said. “As consumers are looking to purchase more plant-based options, this new seal ensures confidence in what plant-based means.” Vegan brands Tofurky and Oatly—both members of PBFA—are the first brands to participate in the program. “Tofurky is a proud early adopter of the new Certified Plant Based seal. In partnership with PBFA, we’re setting an expectation for a recognizable category trust-mark,” Tofurky CEO Jaime Athos said. “This mark will provide consumers with confidence in purchasing 100-percent plant-based foods, for health and sustainability.” The first products to bear the new Certified Plant Based seal will be Tofurky’s Italian Sausage and Oatly’s oat-based milk, including the Original, Barista Edition, Mocha Barista, Chocolate, and Low Fat varieties.