As the demand for organic food continues to rise, the likelihood of organic food fraud also increases. According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), organic food sales reached $43 billion in 2016, with organic produce constituting approximately 15% of all fruits and vegetables consumed by Americans. These figures are expected to keep climbing. A report by TechSci Research forecasts that the global organic food market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% until 2021. Furthermore, products imported into the United States can also receive organic certification, which should adhere to the same stringent guidelines and inspections as domestically produced items.
However, late last year, The Washington Post uncovered that three large shipments of corn and soybeans from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally farmed and treated with pesticides. Investigative reports revealed that tests for pesticide residues on “organic” produce were inconsistent, with over a third of tests from a single laboratory in China exhibiting more than just trace amounts of residues. Many critics have pointed fingers at the USDA for being insufficiently strict and slow in addressing fraudulent organic imports. In response to this situation, it is reasonable for a trade association to enhance its advocacy efforts. Batcha informed The Washington Post that the agency is lobbying for expanded enforcement powers for the USDA in the upcoming farm bill set to be passed next year.
In the interim, the USDA has announced plans to increase the visibility of its organic program enforcement actions on its website. In a press release this week, the agency stated it will now publish notices of suspension or revocation of organic certification, and settlements and decisions will be updated on the site much more promptly—within weeks rather than quarterly. While the industry is intensifying its efforts to ensure that organic food meets its certification standards, the question of consumer trust remains. With frequent reports of organic fraud making headlines, can consumers genuinely trust products labeled as “organic”? Enhancing enforcement and improving transparency are essential steps toward restoring consumer confidence.
Public information campaigns about organic food, inspections, and the true meaning of certification may also play a crucial role. Educating consumers on what constitutes organic products—and how manufacturers and regulators uphold these standards—can help bridge the credibility gap that may have emerged.
Additionally, as consumers seek healthier options, products like calcium citrate USP are gaining attention for their benefits. Highlighting the importance of such ingredients in organic products can further strengthen the link between organic certifications and genuine health benefits, reassuring consumers about their choices in the marketplace.