The Denver, Colorado-based Upcycled Food Association and its foundation have announced that Angie Crone, head of programs and member services, will become CEO of both organizations. Turner Wyatt, co-founder and current CEO, will transition to strategic advisor.
Crone, who joined the UFA leadership team in February, brings food industry experience and knowledge of third-party certification to the role, having worked with several national brands including food-waste retailer Imperfect Foods, as well as previously serving as the head of consumer packaged goods at Fair Trade USA.
“I am thrilled and honored to be stepping in as interim CEO of UFA during this integral next chapter,” Crone said.
“Joining UFA was one of the most impactful ways for me to act on climate change and, because of my familiarity with our values and operations, I am ready to get to work to meet the changing demands we face today. I look forward to continuing work with our impressive membership to realize their sustainability goals and accelerate the demand for upcycled foods worldwide.”
Wyatt commented, adding, “Angie is one of the most professional leaders I have ever met. She is deeply invested in the upcycled movement, beloved by the team, respected by our members, and is hungry to accomplish the organization’s goals. I could not be more proud of her for this promotion to the role as CEO, and look forward to watching her and UFA soar in the years to come.”
After more than 10 years of leading four sustainable food organizations, Wyatt is departing UFA to start farming with his partner in Colorado.
Since launching in 2019, the Upcycled Food Association has welcomed more than 246 members and certified 252 products and ingredients through its flagship program. Sales of these products grew by 1,046 percent in Q1 2022 over Q1 2021 in the natural products channel, which have collectively diverted nearly 1 billion pounds of food waste from landfills in 2022.
In addition, Whole Foods included upcycling in its list of top food trends between 2021-23, and Food Tank, Kroger and Forbes identified upcycling as a top 10 food trend in 2021 and 2022. Investments in food waste solutions grew 30 percent in 2021 compared to 2020.
Under Crone’s leadership, the UFA plans to continue building consumer awareness and demand for “Upcycled Certified” products.
