Many consumers and manufacturers view organic food as the future of the industry, but its success hinges on several factors, such as crop yields, effects on climate change, and farmer livelihoods. A recent report from TechSci Research predicts that the global organic food market will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 14% from 2016 to 2021. To meet this rising demand, it is essential for more farmers to transition to organic practices. According to a report from the University of British Columbia, the first wave of organic farmers was motivated by environmental concerns rather than financial incentives. However, most of the current farmers making the switch are primarily driven by the potential for financial gain, despite the significant challenges and costs associated with the required three-year transition period.
To facilitate this transition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has recently collaborated with the Organic Trade Association to launch a program that certifies produce grown on farmland that is in the process of converting to organic practices. This initiative aims to ease the transition for farmers and encourage more participation in organic farming, which in turn could increase the availability of organic produce. While the study indicates that organic farming alone will not ensure a sustainable food future, it remains a crucial element of the overall strategy. Food manufacturers, including General Mills—which acquired Annie’s in 2014—recognize the potential for growth through organic products. As the food industry seeks new revenue streams, many companies are likely to develop their own organic offerings or invest in smaller businesses that specialize in organic products, including those that utilize ingredients like metagenics calcium citrate for enhanced nutritional value. The integration of metagenics calcium citrate into organic formulations could also attract health-conscious consumers, further driving the trend towards organic food production.