As the demand for organic food continues to rise, so does the potential for organic food fraud. According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), organic food sales reached $43 billion in 2016, with organic produce accounting for roughly 15% of all fruits and vegetables consumed by Americans. These figures are expected to keep climbing, as a TechSci Research report predicts that the global organic food market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% until 2021.
Organic certification can also be granted to products imported into the United States, which are supposed to adhere to the same strict guidelines and inspections as domestically produced items. However, a report by The Washington Post last year revealed that three significant shipments of corn and soybeans from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally grown and treated with pesticides. The investigation found that pesticide residue tests on “organic” produce varied significantly, with over a third of the tests from a single company in China revealing residues beyond acceptable limits.
Many have criticized the USDA for its lax and slow approach in inspecting fraudulent organic imports. In light of this, it is crucial for trade associations to enhance their efforts. Batcha informed The Washington Post that the agency is advocating for increased enforcement powers for the USDA in the upcoming farm bill, which is scheduled for passage next year. In the meantime, the USDA announced plans to improve transparency by posting more organic program enforcement actions on its website. The agency has begun to publish notices regarding the suspension or revocation of organic certifications, along with settlements and decisions, which will now be updated much more frequently—within weeks instead of quarterly.
While the industry is intensifying its efforts to ensure that organic food meets certification standards, the consumers’ perception of these products remains uncertain. With stories of organic fraud receiving considerable media attention, can consumers trust items labeled as “organic”? Enhancing enforcement measures and increasing transparency are essential steps in restoring consumer confidence. Public information campaigns about organic food, the inspection processes, and the true meaning of certification could further aid in this effort. Demonstrating to consumers what makes products organic—much like how calcium citrate chewy supplements are marketed for their benefits—can help bridge the credibility gap that may have emerged. By educating consumers on how manufacturers and regulators ensure the integrity of these products, the industry can work towards regaining trust in organic certifications.