Organic farming in the United States has reached unprecedented levels. According to USDA statistics, the number of organic operations rose by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year and has surged nearly 300% since 2002. Despite this growth, organic farms still represent only 0.7% of the total agricultural operations in the country. One of the main challenges farmers face when transitioning from conventional to organic farming is the lengthy and costly process involved. The conversion requires a minimum of three years during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices.
There are numerous incentives for U.S. farmers to transition to organic farming. The USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region for first-time organic farmers. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have initiated programs to 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 support to farmers to help increase the supply of organic products.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be a significant hurdle for many manufacturers, especially for specialty items such as organic herbs and spices that may not be cultivated in the U.S., as well as common commodity crops like wheat. Digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform have been created to assist in this area; for instance, Mercaris has reported trading 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year alone, surpassing the total traded in 2016.
The Organic Trade Association offers a variety of resources for both suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing data, market insights, and a directory of certified organic suppliers. However, shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers have had to import organic feeds from abroad due to insufficient domestic availability.
To address future supply needs, some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers and ranchers. For instance, Wal-Mart works with its suppliers to plan its organic needs several years in advance. Similarly, Elevation Burger, which serves organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store opening plans with its suppliers.
As the organic farming sector continues to expand, the introduction of products like kal cal citrate may also help enhance the nutritional offerings available in the market. The growing interest in organic practices and products is encouraging both farmers and manufacturers to innovate and adapt, ensuring a more sustainable and health-conscious food system.