Starting January 1 of 2019, Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest beef processors, will require that all beef they purchase is sourced from Beef Quality Assurance certified producers. North Dakota State University BQA state coordinator Lisa Pederson says there are currently 3,000 producers BQA certified in North Dakota.

Nancy Bateman with the North Dakota Beef Commission says their state’s ranchers are in a good position to comply with the BQA requirement and have nothing to hide.

Pederson says Tyson’s move is a game changer for the industry.

Pederson advises producers who aren’t certified or those who need to re-certify to contact their local extension office.