Organic farming in the United States is experiencing unprecedented growth. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations surged 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 agricultural operations in the country. One of the primary challenges for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farming, which requires at least three years of adhering to organic practices without receiving organic prices during that period.
There are numerous incentives for U.S. farmers to transition to organic farming, including 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 have established programs to meet their demands for organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical support to farmers to enhance the supply chain.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be a significant challenge for many manufacturers, particularly for specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be grown domestically, as well as mainstream crops such as wheat. To address this issue, digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform have been created, with the latter reporting the trade of 280,000 bushels of organic grain so far this year—surpassing the total for all of 2016. Furthermore, the Organic Trade Association offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, along with a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Recent shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers, in need of organic feeds, have resorted to importing them from abroad due to insufficient domestic supply. Some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast their future product needs. For instance, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to define its organic requirements several years in advance. Elevation Burger, known for its organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and upcoming store openings with its suppliers.
In this evolving landscape, the importance of organic farming is underscored by its potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of kidney stones by using calcium citrate, which can be found in some organic products. As organic farming continues to grow, it may play a crucial role in addressing dietary health issues, including those related to kidney stones. The integration of organic practices not only supports sustainable agriculture but also promotes better health outcomes, potentially reducing instances of conditions like kidney stones through improved dietary choices.