NY Beef Quality Assurance Simplifies Certification
Producers interested in participating in the New York BQA program or obtaining certification can visit www.nybeef.org
For more information, contact Chrissy Claudio or Nancy Glazier
Utica, NY (June 2024)—The New York Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program, proudly funded by the New York Beef Checkoff and implemented in collaboration with the New York Beef Council and Cornell Cooperative Extension, is excited to announce significant improvements to its certification process.
Responding to the beef industry's evolving needs and feedback from producers, the New York BQA program has undergone strategic changes to streamline certification procedures and ensure alignment with current industry standards. These changes aim to make participation more accessible and straightforward for beef producers across the state.
Key updates to the New York BQA program include eliminating proof of a current Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) requirement and implementing a single level of certification. The elimination of the VCPR better aligns with the FDA requirement for administering medically important antibiotics. The program acknowledges producers' expertise in implementing effective animal health and welfare practices while emphasizing the importance of veterinary guidance. This change simplifies the certification process, making it more inclusive and easier for producers to navigate.
Furthermore, transitioning to a single level of certification streamlines the program and reduces complexity for both producers and program administrators. With just one level of certification, producers can expect a straightforward process that ensures consistency and uniformity in BQA practices across the industry.
"The New York Beef Quality Assurance program is committed to promoting the highest standards of quality, safety, and animal welfare in beef production," said Chrissy Claudio, Director of Producer Communications at the New York Beef Council. "These updates reflect our dedication to continuous improvement and our desire to make BQA certification accessible to all producers while still maintaining the integrity and credibility of our program."
Producers interested in participating in the New York BQA program or obtaining certification can visit www.nybeef.org for more information or contact Chrissy Claudio or Nancy Glazier for assistance.
The New York Beef Quality Assurance program, funded by the Beef Checkoff and implemented by the New York Beef Council and Cornell Cooperative Extension, remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the beef industry and ensuring the production of high-quality, safe, and sustainable beef products in New York.
About the New York Beef Quality Assurance Program: The New York Beef Quality Assurance program is funded by the Beef Checkoff and implemented in collaboration with the New York Beef Council and Cornell Cooperative Extension. It aims to promote best management practices in beef production, ensuring the highest quality, safety, and animal welfare standards. Through education, outreach, and certification, the program supports beef producers in adopting practices that enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of the beef industry in New York.
About the Beef Checkoff: The Beef Checkoff was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The Checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle and a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents of the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.