Many programs and policies of the USDA were authorized under the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (“2008 Farm Bill”) through September 30, 2012. Beginning October 1, 2012 the authority or funding provided under the 2008 Farm Bill for USDA to operate a number of these programs, including the BioPreferred® program, has expired. As of Oct. 1, 2012, Congress has not passed a 2012 Food, Farm and Jobs Act or other legislation extending the funding for USDA to carry out this program. USDA cannot continue to fully implement the BioPreferred program at this time.

Biobased product label certifications (800 ‘USDA Certified Biobased Products’ as of Oct. 1, 2012) are still valid. Program staff continues to work on product certification and Federal designation activity. Many general questions about the BioPreferred program can be answered at our FAQ page here (link to http://www.biopreferred.gov/FAQ.aspx).

For more information about the BioPreferred program effects due to 2008 Farm Bill expiration, you may email biopreferred@dm.usda.gov. Thank you for your patience and understanding.