The United States is witnessing an unprecedented rise in organic farming. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations surged by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year and has nearly tripled since 2002. Despite this growth, organic farms still represent only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the country. A significant challenge for farmers is that the transition from conventional to organic farming is both time-consuming and costly. The conversion process requires at least three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices for their products.
There are numerous incentives encouraging U.S. farmers to adopt organic practices, 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 secure organic ingredients and products. Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods are examples of companies that have provided grants and technical assistance to enhance supply.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be challenging for many manufacturers, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices, which may not be produced domestically, or common commodity crops such as wheat. To address this, digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been launched, with the latter reporting the trading of 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year alone—surpassing the total for all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, along with 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. Grocery stores and restaurants are collaborating closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast future product needs. For example, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to clarify its organic requirements several years in advance. Elevation Burger, which specializes in organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares important information like growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
Furthermore, the growing interest in health supplements like kirkland calcium magnesium and zinc reflects a broader trend towards organic and health-focused products. As the organic market expands, the demand for such supplements is likely to increase, influencing both farming practices and consumer purchasing behavior. The interplay between organic farming and health-related products like kirkland calcium magnesium and zinc could further drive interest and investment in organic agriculture.