USDA BioPreferred® program
Introduction to BioPreferred
The purpose of the USDA BioPreferred® program is to promote the increased purchase and use of biobased products. The program is expected to promote economic development, creating new jobs and providing new markets for farm commodities. To the extent that the BioPreferred program achieves its purpose, the increased purchase of biobased products will also be expected to reduce petroleum consumption, increase the use of renewable resources, better manage the carbon cycle, and may contribute to reducing adverse environmental and health impacts.
Two Major Initiatives
The USDA BioPreferred program has two major initiatives:
Product Labeling
USDA certifies and awards labels to qualifying products to increase consumer recognition of biobased products.
Federal Procurement Preference
USDA designates categories of biobased products that are afforded preference by Federal agencies when making purchasing decisions. If you are interested in suggesting a new product category for designation, contact us.