Survey of Colorado beef producers' perceptions of the Beef Quality Assurance program.

The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program was first established as a voluntary beef producer initiative to address food safety and quality challenges. A statewide survey of beef producers was conducted to determine: (1) prevalence of BQA certification status, (2) the relationship between BQA certification and adherence to best management practices, and (3) perceptions about the value of BQA certification. The survey was mailed to beef producers in Colorado and included questions about demographics, BQA knowledge and participation, perspectives on the BQA program, and value derived from BQA. A total of 466 producers were included in the analysis; nearly 95% (n = 439) had heard of the BQA program, and 72.0% (n = 313) had participated in BQA training. There was a significant relationship between BQA certification status and: perceived knowledge about and adherence to BQA guidelines (χ² = 171.82, P < 0.0001), indication of having written documentation of a valid working relationship with a veterinarian (χ² = 20.246, P < 0.0001), and following of animal handling and well-being practices (χ² = 68.558, P < 0.0001). There was a relationship between being BQA-certification and using BQA certification as a marketing strategy (χ² = 93.001, P < 0.0001). Results showed a relationship between BQA certification status and the belief that BQA certification increases consumer confidence in beef production (χ² = 18.886, P < 0.0001). Results from this study indicate that producers identify many values associated with the BQA program related to cattle well-being, profitability, and consumer confidence.