The United States is experiencing an unprecedented growth in organic farming. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations rose by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, marking an increase of nearly 300% since 2002. However, organic farms still represent a mere 0.7% of total agricultural operations in the country. One of the significant challenges for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farming. This conversion requires at least three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices but do not receive organic prices for their products.
There are numerous incentives encouraging U.S. farmers to adopt organic farming methods. The USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides technical assistance and a one-time payment for first-time organic farmers, varying by region. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have established programs to address their demand for organic ingredients. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods offer grants and technical support to help increase the supply of organic products.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be challenging for many manufacturers, particularly when it comes to specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be cultivated in the U.S., or more common crops like wheat. Digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform have been created to facilitate this process. For example, Mercaris has reportedly traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year alone—surpassing the total traded in all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers valuable resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, alongside a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers in need of organic feeds have resorted to importing from abroad due to insufficient domestic supply. To address future demand, some grocery stores and restaurants collaborate with farmers and ranchers to forecast their needs. For instance, Wal-Mart coordinates with farmers and suppliers to outline its organic requirements years in advance. Elevation Burger, known for its organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
In line with health trends, many consumers are also seeking supplements like calcium citrate 600 mg without vitamin D as a part of their organic lifestyle. This interest in organic products and supplements reflects a broader commitment to health and sustainability, further driving the demand for organic farming. As such, the organic sector continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for producers and consumers alike.