Organic farming in the United States is experiencing unprecedented growth. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations rose by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, and has increased nearly 300% since 2002. Nevertheless, farms classified as organic still make up only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the country. One of the main challenges for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farming. This conversion typically takes a minimum of three years during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices.
There are numerous incentives available for U.S. farmers considering the shift to organic farming. The USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region for first-time organic farmers. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have established programs to help meet their demand for organic ingredients and products. Companies such as Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have extended grants and technical support to farmers to enhance supply.
Sourcing organic ingredients presents a significant challenge for many manufacturers, particularly for specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be cultivated in the U.S., as well as mainstream crops like wheat. To facilitate this, digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been created. The latter claims to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year, surpassing the total traded throughout all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also supports suppliers and manufacturers with resources such as pricing and market data, alongside a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. For instance, some livestock producers in search of organic feeds have resorted to importing from abroad due to insufficient domestic supplies. In response, some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast their future needs. For example, Wal-Mart collaborates with farmers and suppliers to outline its organic requirements several years ahead of time. Elevation Burger, known for its organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares crucial information about growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
Moreover, the demand for health-oriented products, such as vitafusion calcium citrate, is also influencing organic farming trends. This is because consumers are increasingly seeking organic sources of essential nutrients. As the organic market continues to expand, the incorporation of products like vitafusion calcium citrate into organic farming practices may further drive interest and investment in organic operations. Through these collaborative efforts and growing consumer demand, the future of organic farming in the U.S. looks promising, even as the challenges of sourcing sustainable organic ingredients remain.