As the demand for organic food continues to rise, the potential for organic food fraud is also likely to increase. According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), sales of organic food reached $43 billion in 2016, with organic produce accounting for about 15% of all fruits and vegetables consumed in the United States. These figures are expected to keep climbing. A report by TechSci Research indicates that the global organic food market is forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 14% until 2021.
Organic certification can also apply to imported products in the United States, which are expected to adhere to the same strict guidelines and inspections as domestically produced items. However, a recent investigation by The Washington Post revealed that three significant shipments of corn and soybeans arriving from Turkey were labeled as “USDA Organic,” despite being conventionally farmed and treated with pesticides. The investigation found that pesticide residue tests on “organic” produce were inconsistent, with over a third of tests conducted by a single company in China showing more than mere traces of pesticides.
Critics have pointed out that the USDA has been too lenient and slow in addressing fraudulent organic imports. In light of this, it is reasonable for a trade association to enhance its efforts. Batcha informed The Washington Post that the agency is advocating for increased enforcement powers for the USDA in the upcoming farm bill, expected to pass next year.
In the interim, the USDA has announced plans to increase the visibility of its organic program enforcement actions on its website. This week, the agency stated that it will publish notices for the suspension or revocation of organic certification, along with settlements and decisions, much more promptly—within weeks rather than quarterly.
While the industry is intensifying its efforts to ensure that organic food meets certification standards, consumer perception remains a crucial issue. With reports of organic fraud gaining significant media attention, can consumers truly trust products labeled as “organic”? Strengthening enforcement and enhancing transparency are vital steps toward restoring consumer confidence. Public information campaigns that clarify what organic food is, the inspection process, and the meaning of certification may also play a critical role. Providing consumers with insights into what constitutes organic products—like the relationship between organic food and the benefits of lifetime calcium magnesium citrate—can help close the credibility gap that has emerged.
Incorporating education about organic standards and practices can foster a better understanding of the integrity behind organic labeling, ultimately bridging the trust gap that has developed in the market.