Organic Trends
Certified Organic is one of the fastest growing segments of the US agricultural system.
"In 2021, the U.S. had 17,445 farms operating a total of 4.9 million certified organic acres. If you compare just a two-year period, you will find the sale of organic crops increased by 5%, growing from $5.8 billion in 2019 to $6.1 billion in 2021. At this same time, the sales of livestock and poultry products (i.e., milk, eggs) increased by 16% to $2.9 billion from the 2019 total of $2.5 billion. Additionally, livestock and poultry sales increased by 29% to $2.2 billion from the $1.7 billion totals of 2019." (USDA NASS Report)
While this impressive growth on a national scale is encouraging to those in the Certified Organic industry, at the state and local levels we still see variability in the demand for local certified organic produce. In the right market with the right customer base, certified organic can demand higher premiums that may translate to higher returns, but as with all products, attributes and markets, it is important to assess existing demand for organic products and the costs of bringing them to market before growing them.
Challenges
- Transitioning to organic can take up to three years unless grower can show that that no prohibited substances have been used in the past three years.
- Growers will need to write an Organic System Plan which is required for certification.
- Inspections for certification happen yearly and there are fees associated.
Opportunities
- Demand for organic products is growing on a national and international stage.
- Organic products often demand a premium resulting in more revenue into the operation.
- Organic may be a good fit for small diversified operations.
Organic Crop Profiles & Publications
Organic Crop Profiles
Partner Organizations
Organic Association of Kentucky
The Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK) is a nonprofit organization founded by farmers, for farmers. OAK works to advance organic regenerative agriculture, to improve the health of the environment and our communities. They offer field days, technical assistance, an annual conference, and multiple other kinds of support.
KDA Organic Program
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is accredited by the United States Department of Agriculture National Organic Program as a Certifying Agent for the scopes of Crops, Wild Crops, Livestock, and Handling Operations.
KDA currently certifies only entities located within the state of Kentucky.
National Organic Program (USDA)
NOP is a federal regulatory program that develops and enforces consistent national standards for organically produced agricultural products sold in the United States.
NOP also accredits third-party organizations to certify that farms and businesses meet the national organic standards. These certifiers and USDA work together to enforce the standards, ensuring a level playing field for producers and protecting consumer confidence in the integrity of the USDA Organic Seal.