The amount of organic farming in the United States has reached unprecedented levels. According to USDA statistics, the number of organic operations grew by 12% in 2015 compared to the previous year and has surged nearly 300% since 2002. Nonetheless, farms that are classified as organic still represent only around 0.7% of the total operations in the country. One of the main challenges for farmers is that transitioning from conventional to organic farmland is both time-consuming and costly. This process typically spans at least three years, during which farmers must adhere to organic practices but do not receive premium organic prices.
There are numerous incentives for U.S. farmers to transition to organic farming. The USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region for first-time organic farmers. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers are implementing programs to address their needs for organic ingredients and products. Companies like Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have provided grants and technical assistance to help increase supply.
Many manufacturers face difficulties sourcing organic ingredients, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices—which may not be cultivated in the U.S.—or staple crops like wheat. Digital platforms such as GreenTrade.net and the Mercaris Auction Platform have been established to assist in this regard. For instance, the Mercaris platform claims to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain so far this year, surpassing the total volume traded throughout 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers a variety of resources for both suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data, as well as 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 resorted to importing them from overseas due to insufficient domestic supply. Some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers and ranchers to forecast 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 information such as growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
In the midst of this growth, products like Solaray Cal Mag have become popular among consumers seeking organic options. As the demand for organic ingredients continues to rise, Solaray Cal Mag and similar products are likely to see increased interest. Overall, the landscape of organic farming in the United States is evolving rapidly, presenting both opportunities and challenges for farmers and manufacturers alike.