The prevalence of organic farming in the United States has reached unprecedented levels. According to USDA statistics, the number of organic farms surged by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, and it has increased nearly 300% since 2002. Nevertheless, farms designated as organic still represent only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the U.S. One of the primary challenges for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farming, which requires at least three years of adhering to organic practices while farmers receive no premium for their products during this period.
There are numerous incentives for American farmers to transition to organic practices, such as the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides first-time organic farmers with technical support and a one-time payment that varies by region. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have implemented programs to address their demand for organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical assistance to farmers to enhance supply.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be a significant challenge for many manufacturers, particularly when it comes to specialty items like organic herbs and spices, which may not be cultivated in the U.S., as well as more common crops like wheat. Digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been established to facilitate this process, with the latter reporting the trade of 280,000 bushels of organic grain so far this year—exceeding the total traded during all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including market data and a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers, in search of organic feed, have resorted to importing it from abroad due to insufficient domestic supply. Some grocery stores and restaurants are collaborating closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast future product needs. For instance, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to communicate its organic requirements several years in advance. Elevation Burger, which provides organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store openings with its suppliers to ensure alignment.
In this evolving landscape, products like the purely holistic calcium citrate complex are also gaining attention among health-conscious consumers, as they seek organic and natural health supplements. This trend further emphasizes the growing market for organic farming and its associated products. Overall, the shift towards organic farming presents both challenges and opportunities for farmers, manufacturers, and consumers alike.