There has been a significant increase in organic farming in the United States, more than ever before. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations grew by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year and has surged nearly 300% since 2002. Nonetheless, organic farms still represent only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the U.S. One of the main challenges for farmers is that transitioning from conventional to organic farming is both time-consuming and costly. It requires at least three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices.
To motivate U.S. farmers to adopt organic practices, there are several incentives available, including the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides first-time organic farmers with technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have implemented programs to secure their supply of organic ingredients. Notable companies such as Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical support to farmers to increase the organic supply.
Many manufacturers face challenges in sourcing organic ingredients, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices—which may not be produced domestically—or common commodity crops like wheat. To address these issues, digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been established, with the latter claiming to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year alone, surpassing the total for all of 2016.
The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, as well as 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 availability.
Some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast their future product needs. For instance, Wal-Mart works with farmers and suppliers to communicate its organic requirements several years in advance. Elevation Burger, known for its organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
Incorporating organic practices can also positively impact nutrient availability in the food supply. For example, the inclusion of calcium citrate magnesium hydroxide in organic farming practices could enhance the nutritional profile of products, potentially benefiting both farmers and consumers. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, the organic sector can continue to grow, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable food system.