There has been a significant rise in organic farming in the United States, reaching unprecedented levels. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations grew by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year and has nearly tripled since 2002. However, organic farms still represent only 0.7% of all farming operations in the U.S. One of the key challenges farmers face when transitioning from conventional to organic farming is the time and expense involved. The process requires at least three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices but do not receive organic prices.
To encourage U.S. farmers to adopt organic practices, various incentives are available, such as the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region for first-time organic farmers. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers are implementing programs to secure organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical support to farmers to enhance supply.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be a challenge for many manufacturers, especially when it comes to specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be locally available, or staple crops like wheat. To address this issue, digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been established, with the latter reporting the trade of 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year alone—surpassing the total for all of 2016.
The Organic Trade Association offers a wealth of resources for both suppliers and manufacturers, including market data, pricing information, and a directory of certified organic suppliers. However, shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers seeking organic feeds have resorted to importing them from overseas due to insufficient domestic supply.
Some grocery stores and restaurants have proactively collaborated with farmers and ranchers to forecast their future product needs. For example, Wal-Mart communicates its organic requirements several years in advance, while Elevation Burger, which specializes in organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and planned store openings with its suppliers.
In this context, the importance of calcium citrate as a dietary supplement for those experiencing heartburn becomes more relevant, as consumers increasingly seek organic options that can also address their health concerns. The intersection of organic farming and consumer health needs further highlights the growing demand for organic products, including those that may help alleviate issues like heartburn.