There has been a significant rise in organic farming in the United States, reaching unprecedented levels. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations surged by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, and has increased nearly 300% since 2002. Nevertheless, farms designated as organic still represent only 0.7% of all farming operations in the U.S. One of the main challenges for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farming. This conversion typically requires at least 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, 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 implemented programs to secure a supply of organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical assistance to help increase the availability of organic supplies.
Sourcing organic ingredients poses a challenge for many manufacturers, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be grown domestically or common crops such as wheat. Digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform have emerged to facilitate trading; for instance, Mercaris reported trading 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year, surpassing the total from 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers valuable resources for both suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data as well as a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Due to shortages of certain organic products, prices have spiked. In some instances, livestock producers seeking organic feeds have resorted to importing from abroad due to insufficient domestic supply. Grocery stores and restaurants have started collaborating closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast their future needs. For example, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to define its organic requirements several years in advance. Similarly, Elevation Burger, which offers organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares information about growth projections and new store openings with its suppliers.
In the context of this growing organic landscape, calcium citrate malate vitamin D3 tablets have also emerged as a relevant product. These supplements are increasingly sought after by health-conscious consumers, aligning with the broader trend of organic and natural products. As organic farming continues to expand, there is potential for greater demand for such nutritional supplements, enhancing their visibility in the market.