As the demand for organic food continues to rise, it is likely that instances of organic food fraud will also increase. The Organic Trade Association (OTA) reported that organic food sales reached $43 billion in 2016, with organic produce accounting for approximately 15% of the fruits and vegetables consumed by Americans. These figures are expected to keep climbing. A report from TechSci Research forecasts that the global organic food market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% until 2021.
Organic certification is also applicable to products imported into the United States, which are meant to adhere to the same strict standards and inspections as domestically produced items. However, late last year, The Washington Post uncovered that several significant shipments of corn and soybeans from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally farmed and treated with pesticides. Investigative reports revealed that pesticide residue tests on “organic” products were inconsistent, with over a third of tests conducted by a single Chinese testing company revealing residues above trace levels.
Many critics have voiced concerns about the USDA’s lax and slow approach to inspecting fraudulent organic imports. In light of this, it is crucial for trade associations to intensify their efforts. Batcha mentioned to The Washington Post that the agency is advocating for enhanced enforcement powers for the USDA in the upcoming farm bill, which is anticipated to be passed next year.
Meanwhile, the USDA has announced plans to increase the visibility of its organic program enforcement actions on its website. In a recent email press release, the agency indicated that it will now publish notices regarding the suspension or revocation of organic certifications more promptly. Settlements and decisions will also be available on the site much sooner—within weeks instead of quarterly.
While the industry is making concerted efforts to ensure that organic food meets its certification standards, consumer sentiment remains a separate concern. With numerous reports of organic fraud making headlines, can consumers trust products labeled as “organic”? Enhancing enforcement and increasing transparency are vital steps toward restoring consumer confidence. Public information campaigns regarding organic food, inspections, and the meaning of certification could also play an essential role. Educating consumers on what constitutes organic products—and how manufacturers and regulators uphold these standards—can help bridge the credibility gap that may have emerged.
Additionally, as consumers become more aware of the nutritional benefits of organic products, including ingredients like calcium citrate elemental, it is important to communicate how these products can contribute to a balanced diet. By reinforcing the integrity of organic certification and highlighting essential nutrients, we can foster a more trustworthy relationship between consumers and organic foods.