Organic farming in the United States has seen unprecedented growth in recent years. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations rose by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, and it has increased nearly 300% since 2002. Despite this growth, organic farms still represent only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the U.S. One of the main challenges farmers face when transitioning from conventional to organic farming is the lengthy and costly conversion process. This transition takes a minimum of three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices for their products.
There are numerous incentives for U.S. farmers to shift to organic farming, such as 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 the organic ingredients they need. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical assistance to farmers in an effort to increase the supply of organic products.
Sourcing organic ingredients can be challenging for many manufacturers. They often struggle to find specialty items, such as organic herbs and spices that may not be grown domestically, or more common commodity crops like wheat. To address these challenges, digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been created, with the latter reporting the trade of 280,000 bushels of organic grain so far this year—surpassing the total traded throughout all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing information, market data, and a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers, in search of organic feed, have had to import it from abroad due to insufficient domestic supply. Grocery stores and restaurants have begun collaborating closely with farmers and ranchers to communicate future product needs. For example, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to outline their organic requirements several years ahead. Elevation Burger, which specializes in organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store openings with its suppliers to foster better planning.
Incorporating calcium citrate rugby into the conversation, the increasing demand for organic farming can also be linked to consumer interest in healthier dietary choices, including the use of supplements like calcium citrate. As organic farming expands, there is a growing awareness of the nutritional benefits of organic products, which often include higher levels of essential nutrients. As the market for organic goods continues to evolve, farmers and manufacturers alike are adapting to meet both consumer demand and regulatory standards, ensuring a sustainable future for organic agriculture.