Grainnet

Jefferson City, MO-– The state that took the lead by requiring a two percent blend of biodiesel in its diesel fuel supply, continues to lead the biodiesel movement by ensuring high quality product.

The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) announced Juen 7 that SoyMor Biodiesel, LLC, of Albert Lea, MN, has achieved BQ-9000 accreditation under the National Biodiesel Accreditation Program.

BQ-9000 is a voluntary fuel quality program adopted by both NBB and the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association.

“SoyMor pursued the BQ-9000 certification because quality of the fuel is everything,” said Roger Peterson, Chairman of SoyMor.

“I think it’s a necessity – fuel used anywhere in the U.S. should have the same quality, so that nobody has hesitancy in using it, and always has confidence in the product.

"We want to let the nation know that our biodiesel in the state of Minnesota is not only high quality, but we helped set the bar for every plant to become BQ-9000 accredited.”

BQ-9000 is a quality assurance program that includes procedures for fuel storage, handling and management aimed at ensuring fuel quality throughout the distribution system.

"The program creates a comprehensive quality system whereby fuel is consistently produced in accordance with ASTM specifications and maintains its quality all the way to the customer’s fuel tank.

"SoyMor is one of three operational biodiesel plants in the state, and the first in Minnesota to become BQ-9000 accredited.

“We are glad SoyMor is taking the lead in BQ-9000 accreditation in the state of Minnesota,” said Leland Tong, chairman of the National Biodiesel Accreditation Commission (NBAC).

“They can serve as a model to other producers, especially since the state has been highlighted in renewable fuel news of late.”

More than 65 biodiesel plants currently operate nationwide.

Another 50 are under construction.

Tong pointed out that with such rapid industry growth, ensuring that only a quality product reaches every consumer is more critical than ever.

Accreditation under the BQ-9000 program is open to all companies that produce, distribute or market biodiesel either in its pure form or for use in blending with petroleum diesel fuel.

There are two types of designation under the program: Accredited Producer and Certified Marketer.

The Certified Marketer category applies mostly to petroleum distributors, who play a critical role in fuel quality management through proper handling and storage.

SoyMor Cooperative, LLC, is a cooperative of soybean farmers from southern Minnesota and northern Iowa that supplies naturally processed soy-based products directly from the farmer to various manufacturers.

For more information, call Amber Thurlo Pearson at 573-635-3893.

See Related Websites/Articles:

• National Biodiesel Board

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