Over the past few decades, the number of organic products on the market has increased and has had a major impact on agriculture. In the long run, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)Report From 2011 to 2021, certified organic business grew 90%. As demand for organic products increases, agricultural expert Find ways to support farmers and ranchers. Let’s discuss some of the major impacts of consumer demand for organic products on agriculture.
1. Farming methods
Organic farming involves growing food without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, or using only inputs such as naturally occurring biological products. Therefore, farming practices must be adjusted to comply with specific organic regulations. The National Organic Program (NOP) enforces standards for organic products, including crop rotation, pest management, and maintaining crop integrity. Additionally, the NOP sets standards for organic livestock production by regulating livestock living conditions, grazing, animal health, and feed. As consumer demand for organic products increases, farmers, with the help of agricultural experts, are gaining new knowledge and skills and adjusting farming practices to meet regulatory requirements.
2. Price increases
The number of organic products in mainstream stores continues to increase. Typically, organic products are sold at a higher price than non-organic products due to increased production costs. Consumers who see great value in buying organic are willing to pay a premium. The Nutrition Business Journal reports that organic retail sales will reach $52 billion in 2021. While this is not the case for all farmers, a higher price point means some farmers are able to earn higher profits and increase economic stability.
3. Organic Farmland
As the demand for organic products increases, land previously used for conventional farming has been converted to organic farmland. The USDA reports that from 2011 to 2021, the area of ​​certified organic farmland has increased by 79 percent, including nearly 4 million acres. While 4 million acres is small compared to all farmland, the organic farming market is on the rise. As some farmers choose organic farming, agricultural experts help research and implement new technologies that optimize these practices.
4. Market growth
Gone are the days when organic produce was only sold at farmers markets or small businesses.Organic Trade Association set up 56% of organic food sold in 2020 in grocery stores, club stores and supermalls. With this shift, small and large farmers are entering the organic sector and expanding their work. The industry that processes and distributes organic products has also expanded as organic products have moved into larger stores.
final thoughts
Organic products have caused many changes in the agricultural market. Despite the positive impact, meeting the demand for organic products can be challenging due to the strict regulation and care required for organic farming.agricultural expert, researchers, and innovators continue to explore the impact of organic products on the agricultural market. Consumer demand is increasing and will continue to have an impact on agriculture due to positive and negative factors in organic farming.
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