What is Beef Quality Assurance?
Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a nationally coordinated, state implemented program that provides systematic information to beef and dairy producers and beef consumers of how common sense husbandry techniques can be coupled with accepted scientific knowledge to raise cattle under optimum management and environmental conditions. BQA guidelines are designed to make certain all beef consumers can take pride in what they purchase – and can trust and have confidence in the entire beef industry.
BQA in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania BQA program has evolved to include best practices around good record keeping and protecting herd health, which can result in more profits for producers. When better quality cows leave the farm and reach the market place, the producer, packer and consumer all benefit. When better quality beef reaches the supermarket, consumers are more confident in the beef they are buying, and this helps increase beef consumption.
Getting BQA Certified in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, more than 6,500 beef and dairy producers are certified in the state’s program. Producers are required to participate in a classroom Level 1 presentation that illustrates the guidelines of BQA, followed by a hands-on chute-side training that takes place on the farm. At the completion of both components, producers are required to take an exam. Once a producer has completed both levels of training and have passed the exam they are certified. Certification is valid for three years. Take the opportunity today to make the BQA commitment a priority and standard on your farm!