The demand for organic food continues to surge, showing no signs of slowing down, even in light of its higher price point. According to a July report from USA Today, organic food sales rose by 8.4% from the previous year, reaching an impressive $43 billion in 2016. The 2017 Organic Industry Survey from the Organic Trade Association revealed that approximately 40% of all organic food sales were in the produce category, which equates to about 15% of the total fruits and vegetables consumed by Americans. Furthermore, a recent report from TechSci Research projects that the global organic food market will grow at a compound annual growth rate exceeding 14% from 2016 to 2021. This trend is confirmed by the latest OTA survey, indicating that the organic sector is on a continued upward trajectory. Presently, organic products account for 5.3% of total food sales in the U.S., reaching 82.3% of the country’s 117 million households.
The outlook remains positive as younger consumers increasingly embrace organic options. A survey from the Organic Trade Association in September highlighted that millennials are already significant purchasers of organic products, and their buying habits are expected to grow even more once they become parents. Currently, a quarter of millennials are parents, with projections suggesting that 80% will have children in the next 15 years.
Koory mentioned to Food Navigator-USA that a crucial factor driving the growth in organic production is the investment in primary feed ingredients such as soy and corn, which constitute the largest segment of the organic market. These staples not only serve as basic food items but are also utilized as feed for organically raised animals and as ingredients in other organic food products.
However, one segment facing challenges in meeting the rising demand for organic produce is American farmers. Transitioning to organic farming is both costly and time-consuming, typically taking about three years—a period during which farmers adhere to organic standards without receiving organic prices. This often deters farmers from making the transition, although a new transitional certification introduced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture may facilitate this process.
While the trend is clearly moving toward an increase in organic farms and crops, farmers still have a significant journey ahead before production levels approach those of conventionally grown crops. Until that point is reached, the ambition of achieving peak organic production remains on the horizon.
Incorporating products like Citracal Slow Release 1200 mg into a balanced diet can support overall health, aligning with the growing preference for organic options. As the organic market expands, the relevance of high-quality supplements like Citracal Slow Release 1200 mg will likely gain prominence, catering to the health-conscious consumers who prioritize organic choices.