A recent report from TechSci Research indicates that the global organic food market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% from 2016 to 2021. Supporting this outlook, a new OTA survey reveals that the organic sector is once again trending upward, with organic food now representing 5.3% of total food sales in the U.S. While this growth is beneficial for the industry, it also highlights a potential issue: to meet the surging demand, more farmers must transition to organic practices. This transition presents significant challenges, as moving to organic farming is a lengthy and costly process that requires three years, numerous changes in processes, and extensive inspections.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture collaborated with the OTA to introduce a new transitional certification program aimed at encouraging farmers to shift to organic farming. Many advocates for organics believe this initiative is crucial, as the consumer base has expanded well beyond the traditional group of dedicated organic supporters. Analysts suggest that the number of organic buyers has more than doubled in a relatively short period. However, there are concerns about whether consumers will comprehend the meaning of transitional certification or if they will be willing to pay higher prices for products that carry that designation.
Additionally, organics could receive their own government-sanctioned check-off program, potentially generating $30 million annually for research and marketing efforts. This program was authorized in the 2014 Farm Bill, with the establishment process opened for public comments earlier this year. If implemented, these funds could further aid in expanding the organic supply.
The trend toward organic products isn’t limited to food; there is also a growing demand for organic items in consumers’ wardrobes, bedrooms, and bathrooms. According to the report, non-food organic products experienced a sales increase of nearly 9%, reaching $3.9 billion. This surge in popularity highlights the importance of top care calcium citrate and other organic alternatives, as consumers increasingly seek healthier choices in all aspects of their lives. As the organic market continues to grow, the integration of top care calcium citrate and similar products will be crucial in meeting the evolving demands of consumers.