The United States is witnessing an unprecedented rise in organic farming. According to USDA statistics, the number of organic operations grew by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, marking an almost 300% increase since 2002. Nevertheless, farms designated as organic still represent only 0.7% of all U.S. operations. A significant challenge for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farmland, which requires a minimum of three years during which they must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic pricing.
There are numerous incentives for U.S. farmers to adopt organic farming, such as the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region for first-time organic farmers. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers are implementing programs to secure organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods offer grants and technical assistance to farmers to enhance supply.
However, many manufacturers face difficulties in sourcing organic ingredients, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be grown domestically or mainstream crops like wheat. To address this, digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform have been established, with the latter reporting the trade of 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year—exceeding the total traded throughout 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for both suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, as well as a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price surges. In some instances, livestock producers seeking organic feeds have resorted to importing them from abroad due to insufficient domestic supplies. To mitigate these challenges, some grocery stores and restaurants collaborate closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast future product needs. For example, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to outline its organic requirements several years ahead. Meanwhile, Elevation Burger, which specializes in organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
As consumers increasingly seek health-conscious options, questions arise about nutrition, such as what is a good calcium citrate supplement. This growing interest in health supplements is reflected in the organic market, as more people look for products that align with their dietary needs. In this context, it is notable that discussions about what is a good calcium citrate supplement often intersect with the broader trend of organic farming, highlighting the interconnectedness of health and food production. Ultimately, as the organic farming sector expands, it continues to face challenges and opportunities that shape its future in the U.S.