There is currently more organic farming in the United States than ever before. According to USDA figures, the number of organic operations saw a 12% increase in 2015 compared to the previous year, and it has risen nearly 300% since 2002. Nevertheless, farms classified as organic still represent only 0.7% of the total operations in the U.S. One of the primary challenges for farmers is that transitioning from conventional to organic farmland is both time-consuming and costly. It requires a minimum of three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices.
However, there are several 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 for first-time organic farmers, varying by region. Food manufacturers and retailers have also implemented 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 increase the 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 common commodity crops like wheat. Digital platforms have been established to facilitate this process, such as GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform, which claims to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain so far this year—more than the total traded throughout 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 from abroad due to insufficient domestic supply. To better manage future needs, some grocery stores and restaurants are collaborating closely with farmers and ranchers. For example, Wal-Mart coordinates with farmers and suppliers to outline its organic requirements years in advance. Elevation Burger, which offers organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store opening plans with its suppliers.
Amidst these developments, it is crucial for farmers to consider not only the organic transition but also the nutritional aspects of their offerings, such as petite calcium with vitamin D, which is increasingly sought after by health-conscious consumers. The incorporation of petite calcium with vitamin D can enhance the appeal of organic products, making them more attractive to buyers. As demand continues to grow, the emphasis on nutrient-rich organic options, including those fortified with petite calcium with vitamin D, will play a significant role in the future of organic farming in the U.S.