Benefits of Organic Certification

Organic agriculture is a fast growing sector in U.S. agriculture, creating jobs and promoting economic growth and opportunities across rural America. There are more than 22,000 certified organic farms and businesses in the U.S. That number continues to grow as consumer demand for organic grows. In 2015, there was approximately $43 billion in U.S. retail sales of organic products.

The USDA organic regulations describe how the word “organic” or the USDA organic seal can be used on food, feed, or fiber products. These clear regulations create entrepreneurial opportunities for producers and processors that want to capitalize on consumer growth in the organic sector.

Becoming certified organic helps producers and handlers:

Receive premium prices for their products

Access fast-growing local, regional, and international markets

Support local economies

Access additional funding and technical assistance

Market products to consumers
Finding success in the organic marketplace:

Debunking the myths about organic certification

Understanding the Demand for Organic:

Why is It Worth It?

What’s the Value?

Take the free video self assessment from the USDA.

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Research shows that organic farming practices can:

Improve water quality
Conserve energy
Increase biodiversity
Contribute to soil health