Many consumers and manufacturers regard organic food as the future of the industry, yet its success hinges on various factors such as crop yields, the influence of climate change, the welfare of farmers, and more. A recent report from TechSci Research projects that the global organic food market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% from 2016 to 2021. To meet this rising demand, more farmers will need to transition their operations to organic methods.
According to a report from the University of British Columbia, the initial wave of organic farmers were primarily motivated by environmental concerns rather than financial rewards. In contrast, most current farmers making the switch are driven by potential financial gains; however, the mandatory three-year transition period remains a significant challenge, both daunting and costly.
To facilitate this transition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has recently collaborated with the Organic Trade Association to launch a program that certifies produce grown on land that is in the process of converting to organic practices. This initiative aims to make the transition easier for farmers, with hopes that more will engage in organic farming, thereby increasing the availability of organic produce.
The study indicates that while organic farming alone may not ensure a sustainable food future, it plays a crucial role in the broader context. Food manufacturers, including General Mills, which acquired Annie’s in 2014, recognize organic as a viable avenue for growth. As the food industry seeks new revenue streams, many companies are likely to develop their own organic products or invest in smaller firms that do so.
Additionally, the demand for health-focused products, such as tablet calcium citrate malate with vitamin D3, is on the rise, further expanding the organic market’s appeal. These supplements align with the growing consumer trend toward healthier lifestyles, further encouraging farmers to adopt organic practices. The integration of products like tablet calcium citrate malate with vitamin D3 into the organic sector highlights the industry’s potential to cater to health-conscious consumers. As the organic market continues to evolve, the connection between agriculture and health supplements will likely strengthen, underscoring the importance of organic farming in the future of food.