1Understanding BioPreferred Product Categories
The USDA BioPreferred program maintains a catalog of 139 product categories that are mandatory for federal procurement preference. These categories are organized into browse groups covering cleaning products, lubricants, construction materials, office supplies, textiles, and industrial chemicals.
Each category has a specific minimum biobased content percentage that products must meet. These thresholds are based on the availability of biobased alternatives and are updated as the market evolves.
2Cleaning Products and Janitorial Supplies
The cleaning products group contains the largest number of BioPreferred categories for federal facility management. These are among the most commonly procured items across all federal agencies.
Cleaning Product Thresholds
| Product Category | Min. Biobased Content |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Cleaners | 34% |
| Bathroom Cleaners | 74% |
| Floor Strippers | 58% |
| Glass Cleaners | 49% |
| Hand Cleaners | 64% |
| Carpet Cleaners | 46% |
| Dish Detergents | 58% |
| Laundry Products | 34% |
3Lubricants, Greases, and Industrial Fluids
Industrial maintenance categories relevant to DoD, Army Corps of Engineers, and federal vehicle programs.
Industrial Fluid Thresholds
| Product Category | Min. Biobased Content |
|---|---|
| Penetrating Lubricants | 67% |
| Metalworking Fluids | 32% |
| Chain and Cable Lubricants | 77% |
| Hydraulic Fluids | 44% |
| Gear Oils | 58% |
| Greases | 72% |
4Construction and Facility Materials
Categories applicable to GSA building management, MILCON projects, and federal facility renovation.
Construction Material Thresholds
| Product Category | Min. Biobased Content |
|---|---|
| Adhesives | 53% |
| Concrete and Asphalt Release Agents | 82% |
| Roof Coatings | 20% |
| Wood and Concrete Sealers | 79% |
| Paints and Coatings | 20% |
5Office and Disposable Products
Office Product Thresholds
| Product Category | Min. Biobased Content |
|---|---|
| Plastic Bags | 23% |
| Disposable Containers | 56% |
| Folders and Filing Products | 53% |
| Toner Cartridges | 29% |
6Using This Reference for Procurement
When preparing a solicitation or purchase order, cross-reference product requirements against the category list. If a required product falls within a designated category, the biobased preference applies unless a documented exemption under FAR 23.404 is justified.
Patriot BioSolutions maintains current inventory across all 139 categories. Use our product catalog's BioPreferred filter to browse only verified-compliant products by category.