The United States is currently experiencing the highest levels of organic farming in its history. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations rose by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year and has increased nearly 300% since 2002. Nevertheless, farms designated as organic still represent only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the U.S. A significant challenge for farmers is that transitioning from conventional to organic farming is both time-consuming and costly. This conversion period lasts at least three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic market prices.
There are numerous incentives for U.S. farmers to transition to organic farming, such as the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides first-time organic farmers with technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have introduced programs to help meet their demand for organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical assistance to farmers to enhance supply.
For many manufacturers, sourcing organic ingredients can be challenging, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices, which may not be grown domestically, or mainstream commodity crops like wheat. To address these issues, digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been established. Mercaris claims to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year alone—surpassing the total traded in all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, as well as a directory of certified organic suppliers.
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 are collaborating closely with farmers and ranchers to better understand future product needs. For example, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to clarify its organic requirements several years in advance. Elevation Burger, which provides organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares insights such as growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
In this evolving landscape, products like Citracal Calcium D3 may also see increased interest as consumers prioritize health and nutrition, further driving the demand for organic options. As the organic sector continues to grow, the need for reliable sources of organic ingredients, including those enriched with supplements like Citracal Calcium D3, will only become more prominent.