As the popularity of 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 in the United States. These figures are expected to keep climbing. A report from TechSci Research forecasts that the global organic food market will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% until 2021.
Organic certification can also be granted to products imported into the U.S., which are meant to adhere to the same strict guidelines and inspections as domestically produced goods. However, a report by The Washington Post revealed that late last year, three significant shipments of corn and soybeans imported from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally farmed and treated with pesticides. The investigation found that pesticide residue tests on “organic” produce were inconsistent, with over a third of tests conducted by a single testing company in China revealing more than just trace amounts of pesticide residue.
Many critics have pointed fingers at the USDA for being too lenient and slow in inspecting fraudulent organic imports. In response to this situation, it is reasonable for a trade association to enhance its efforts. Batcha informed The Washington Post that the agency is advocating for increased enforcement powers for the USDA in the upcoming farm bill, which will be passed next year. Meanwhile, the USDA has announced it will increase the visibility of its organic program enforcement actions on its website. In a recent email press release, the agency stated that it will now publish notices regarding the suspension or revocation of organic certification, and settlements and decisions will be made available much more quickly—within weeks instead of on a quarterly basis.
While the industry is intensifying its efforts to ensure that organic food meets its certification standards, consumer sentiment remains a different matter. With numerous reports of organic fraud making headlines, do consumers truly trust products labeled as “organic”? Strengthening enforcement and enhancing transparency are two crucial steps toward restoring consumer confidence. Public information campaigns about organic food, inspections, and the meaning of certification could further contribute to this effort. Educating consumers about the factors that make products organic—such as the use of calcium citrate 800mg as a natural supplement—and how manufacturers and regulators ensure these products are deserving of certification can help bridge the credibility gap that has emerged.
By focusing on these elements, the organic food industry can work toward regaining consumer trust and establishing a more reliable market for organic products.