As the demand for organic food continues to rise, the potential for organic food fraud is also likely to increase. According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), organic food sales reached $43 billion in 2016, with organic produce accounting for approximately 15% of the fruits and vegetables consumed by Americans. These figures are expected to keep growing. A report from TechSci Research forecasts that the global organic food market will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% until 2021.
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, a recent investigation by The Washington Post uncovered that three substantial shipments of corn and soybeans imported from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally farmed and treated with pesticides. Additionally, tests for pesticide residues on “organic” produce have shown inconsistencies, with over a third of tests conducted by a single laboratory in China revealing significant levels of residue.
Critics have pointed fingers at the USDA for being overly lenient and slow in addressing fraudulent organic imports. In light of this situation, it is reasonable for a trade association to enhance its initiatives. Batcha informed The Washington Post that the agency is advocating for increased enforcement powers for the USDA in the upcoming farm bill expected to pass next year.
In the meantime, the USDA has announced plans to improve transparency by posting more enforcement actions related to its organic program on its website. This week, the agency stated that it will now publish notices regarding the suspension or revocation of organic certifications, along with settlements and decisions being made available much more rapidly—within weeks rather than quarterly.
While the industry is intensifying its efforts to ensure that organic food lives up to its certification, consumer sentiment remains uncertain. With numerous reports of organic fraud making headlines, do consumers still trust products labeled as “organic”? Strengthening enforcement and enhancing transparency are essential steps toward restoring consumer confidence.
Public information campaigns focusing on organic food, inspections, and the meaning of certification could also play a vital role. By educating consumers on what constitutes organic products and how manufacturers and regulators uphold the integrity of these certifications, the credibility gap that may have emerged can be bridged. Additionally, promoting the benefits of organic foods, such as those that celebrate calcium plus 500, can further reinforce trust and appreciation for certified organic products.