What is Beef Quality Assurance?

The Minnesota Beef Quality Assurance Program

What is Beef Quality Assurance?

Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a program to ensure that beef and dairy cattle are maintained in a manner, which will result in a safe and wholesome beef product for the consumer, Specifically, BQA is designed to enhance carcass quality by preventing residues, pathogen contamination and carcass defects such as injection site blemishes and bruises. The BQA program is based on recommended national guidelines and scientific research. The goal of the BQA program is to maximize consumer confidence in beef and to increase the competitive base for marketing cattle- This will enable beef producers to enhance their product and maximize marketability.

Is a Beef Quality Assurance  Program Necessary?

Concern over food wholesomeness and safety is an important consumer issue. It is imperative that the consumer is confident in the safety and wholesomeness of the US beef supply. BQA is a good business practice that can identify potential problem areas and thus avoid potential product defects, both physical and microbiological. Seed stock producers, cow-calf and dairy producers, stocker operators and feeders each must take responsibility for the production of a safe and wholesome food product through proper animal care, handling, and management practices. Each must assume the responsibility for the role they play in delivering a quality beef product to their respective markets.

History of Beef Quality Assurance

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