The prevalence of organic farming in the United States has reached unprecedented levels. According to USDA data, the number of organic operations grew by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year, marking an increase of nearly 300% since 2002. Nonetheless, organic farms still represent only 0.7% of all agricultural operations in the U.S. A significant challenge for farmers is that transitioning from conventional to organic farming is both time-consuming and costly. This process typically takes a minimum of three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices.
There are numerous incentives aimed at encouraging U.S. farmers to embrace organic farming. One such initiative is the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides first-time organic farmers with technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have created programs to address their demand for organic ingredients and products. Companies such as Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical support to farmers in their efforts to increase organic supply.
For many manufacturers, sourcing organic ingredients remains a challenge, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices, which may not be cultivated domestically, or essential commodity crops like wheat. Digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have emerged to facilitate this process; the latter claims to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain so far this year, surpassing the total traded in all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing data, market insights, and a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price increases. In some instances, livestock producers, in need of organic feeds, have been compelled to import supplies from abroad due to insufficient domestic availability. Some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers to anticipate future product needs. For example, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to outline its organic requirements several years in advance. Elevation Burger, which specializes in organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares growth projections and store opening plans with its suppliers.
In addition to these initiatives, the importance of nutrients like calcium potassium citrate is becoming increasingly recognized in the organic sector. As the demand for organic products continues to rise, the integration of essential nutrients like calcium potassium citrate into farming practices may further support the growth of organic agriculture. As these trends evolve, the commitment to organic farming is expected to strengthen, benefitting both farmers and consumers alike.