Recently, we wrote about our Needle-Eze product receiving permission to use the USDA’s Biobased Product Label for our organic cotton. We wanted to make sure you were aware of all of our offerings, since we have a handful of products that qualify for this distinction. First, let’s discuss BioPreferred® in a little more detail.
What Is It?
The USDA BioPreferred® program was first created by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (which is more commonly known as the 2002 Farm Bill). This was later expanded by the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (again, referred to as the 2008 Farm Bill). The goal of the program was to increase the purchase and use of biobased products, with the USDA managing the program. Products that meet the USDA BioPreferred® program requirements carry a distinctive label for easier identification by the consumer, and receive preference by Federal Agencies (as well as their contractors).
Okay, But What Does Biobased Mean?
Biobased refers to what the USDA calls “finished commercial or industrial products (other than feed, food, or fuel) that are composed in whole, or in significant part, of biological products—renewable agricultural materials (including plant, animal and marine materials) or forestry materials.” For further clarification, here’s a quick list of things biobased doesn’t include:
- Coal
- Petroleum,
- Motor vehicle fuels
- Heating oil
- Electricity produced from biomass
So What Are the Benefits to BioPreferred®?
First and foremost, the program promotes the purchase and use of biobased products. There’s an economic impact, too; it contributes to new jobs, as well as new markets for farm commodities. Overall, biobased products decrease the country’s dependence on petroleum, all while raising the level of renewable agriculture resources used. Over time, the use of biobased products could potentially help reduce environmental and health impacts deemed negative.
Which Barnhardt Products Are BioPreferred®?
All of our organic cotton is considered BioPreferred®. As far as specific products, in addition to Needle-Eze these products feature the BioPreferred® label:
High Q® Ultra: This premium quality cotton represents the perfect choice for any light weight nonwoven application.
HyDri™: This revolutionary cotton allows moisture to pass through nonwoven fabrics while remaining dry to the touch.
HiLoft™: This cotton is used in applications where either an absorbent or nonabsorbent cotton fiber is desired.
Hopefully this answers all of your BioPreferred® questions. If not, check out the USDA’s FAQ section. And, as always, feel free to request a sample or product sheet of one of our BioPreferred® products to learn more.