Explore the ins and outs of Beef Quality Assurance, or BQA, through a Q&A with a UF/IFAS Livestock agent.
The Beef Quality Assurance program, or BQA, is a program that educates beef producers “on proper management techniques and a commitment to quality within every segment of the beef industry,” according to a UF/IFAS blog by Laurah Bennet, a UF/IFAS Multi-County Livestock Agent for Pasco, Sumter, and Hernando Counties. The program aims to increase consumer confidence in U.S. beef by increasing the quality of beef that leaves the farm. Read a Q&A with Bennett on the Beef Quality Assurance program, below.
Beef Quality Assurance Q&A
Q: What makes it difficult?
A: “One hurdle is the fact that there are many family-owned cattle producers in our country. There is no centralized production because raising cattle takes place all over the country utilizing land not suitable for other agricultural uses. Cattle can grow on many forages and by-products to produce a very high-quality protein source for our food supply. There are nearly 1 million U.S. cattle ranchers and nearly 97% are family-owned. While this is a plus in many respects, it can come with some drawbacks such as producing a very consistent product.”
Q: How does UF/IFAS Extension play a role?
A: “The University of Florida/IFAS Extension has always striven to help people solve problems, develop skills and build a better future. Beef Quality Assurance goes hand-in-hand with this mission. Cattlemen and women in the area can participate in educational events that help them implement management practices that will both improve the quality of cattle they produce and improve their profitability.”
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.
Photo courtesy of Americasroof.