PQA Plus Certification
Pork Quality Assurance® Plus (PQA Plus) is an education and certification program designed to help pig farmers and their employees continually improve production practices. It addresses food safety, animal well-being, environmental stewardship, worker safety, public health and community.
There are two components to PQA Plus. First, individuals can become certified through an education program. Second, farms can receive PQA Plus site status through an on-farm site assessment with a PQA Plus Advisor.
Get Certified
PQA Plus certification can be completed through an online course or in-person training. To get started with a new or renewal certification, first locate a certified advisor to request access to the online program or arrange an in-person training.
PQA Plus FAQs
Why should producers participate in PQA Plus?
PQA Plus exemplifies the commitment of farmers to continuously improve pig production practices. The training process answers customers’ requests for significant, relevant food safety standards and improved animal welfare.
Is there an age requirement to become PQA Plus certified?
Yes, producers must be at least 14 years of age before completing a PQA Plus training. Producers under the age of 14 can complete the Youth for the Quality Care of Animals training found at yqcaprogram.org.
What is a PQA Plus site assessment?
The site assessment is designed to evaluate animal care practices on farms and is conducted by a PQA Plus Advisor. This on-farm assessment includes review of records, facilities, equipment, animal care and well-being practices.
What is PQA Plus Site Status?
PQA Plus site status is granted to a production site identified by a Premise Identification Number (PIN) and associated with a PQA Plus certified producer once an on-farm site assessment has been completed.
What happens if the PQA Plus Advisor finds an issue during the PQA Plus assessment?
A signed written action plan will need to be completed for all non-compliances identified during the site assessment and returned to the PQA Plus Advisor. After completed, then assessment data can be entered and site status can be granted.
