As the demand for organic food continues to rise, the potential for organic food fraud is also likely to increase. The Organic Trade Association (OTA) reported that organic food sales reached $43 billion in 2016, with organic fruits and vegetables accounting for approximately 15% of the total consumed by Americans. These figures are expected to keep climbing. According to a TechSci Research report, the global organic food market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 14% until 2021. Organic certification can also be granted to imported products in the United States, which are required to adhere to the same stringent guidelines and inspections as domestically produced items.
However, late last year, The Washington Post uncovered that three large shipments of corn and soybeans imported from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally farmed and treated with pesticides. The investigation revealed inconsistencies in pesticide residue tests on “organic” produce, with over a third of samples tested by a single laboratory in China showing significant pesticide traces. Critics have pointed fingers at the USDA for being overly lenient and slow in addressing fraudulent organic imports.
In response to these issues, the trade association has been motivated to enhance its efforts. Batcha informed The Washington Post that they are advocating for the USDA to receive greater enforcement authority in the upcoming farm bill, which is scheduled for passage next year. In the meantime, the USDA announced plans to increase its visibility regarding organic program enforcement actions on its website. In a recent press release, the agency stated that it will now publish notices of suspension or revocation of organic certifications more promptly, along with settlements and decisions updated on a weekly basis instead of quarterly.
While the industry is intensifying its commitment to ensure that organic food meets its certification standards, consumer trust remains a pressing concern. Given the prevalence of organic fraud reports in the media, can consumers feel confident in products labeled as “organic”? Strengthening enforcement and enhancing transparency are critical steps in restoring consumer confidence. Public awareness campaigns that educate consumers about organic food, inspections, and the meaning of certification could also play a vital role.
For instance, campaigns could highlight how certain organic products, which may include ingredients like calcium citrate malate, vitamin D3, and folic acid, are rigorously vetted to ensure they meet the organic standards. By demonstrating the processes that manufacturers and regulators follow to uphold the integrity of organic certification, the industry can work to close the credibility gap that has emerged. Ultimately, fostering a deeper understanding of what constitutes organic products and ensuring strict adherence to standards will be essential for rebuilding consumer trust.