Biobased Markets Program (BioPreferred)
BioPreferred Program funding extended with $18 million increase over the 10-year window. Federal procurement preference for biobased products continues. Consumer label maintained.
What it does
The Biobased Markets Program (also called the BioPreferred Program) does two things:
1. Federal procurement preference
Federal agencies must give procurement preference to biobased products in designated product categories. There are over 100 designated categories ranging from carpets to construction materials to lubricants.
2. Consumer voluntary labeling
A USDA Certified Biobased Product label that consumer products can earn through verification of biobased content. Brands use the label for marketing.
What changed in the Farm Bill 2.0
Extended with increased funding
The program’s mandatory funding is increased by $18 million over FY2026–FY2036.
Funded by Biorefinery rescission
The funding increase is offset by an $18M rescission to the Biorefinery Assistance Program, net Title IX change is zero.
Continued authorization
Program authorities reauthorized through FY2031.
Why it matters
The federal government is one of the largest single purchasers in the country. Procurement preference moves real volumes of products. For biobased product manufacturers, federal procurement is often the difference between commercial viability and obscurity.
For consumer-facing biobased products, the BioPreferred label provides marketing differentiation in retail.
Who it matters for
- Biobased product manufacturers: direct beneficiaries
- Biobased materials industries: soy, corn, cellulose, biopolymers
- Federal procurement officers: must apply preference
- Consumer brands using biobased ingredients: labeling opportunity