Regenerative organic agriculture is an emerging trend that is gaining popularity among consumers and farmers alike. This agricultural method goes beyond just growing organic crops, and instead focuses on the holistic regeneration of the soil, ecosystem, and communities that support it. The goal is to create a sustainable and regenerative system that benefits everyone involved, from the farmer to the consumer.
Environmental Impact
One of the primary benefits of regenerative organic agriculture is its ability to sequester carbon. By rebuilding the soil with organic matter and reducing tillage, regenerative agriculture can capture more carbon in the soil, helping to mitigate climate change. According to the Rodale Institute, regenerative agriculture practices can sequester up to 100% of current annual CO2 emissions.
Another benefit of regenerative organic agriculture is its ability to improve soil health. By using techniques such as crop rotations, cover cropping, and reduced tillage, farmers can build up organic matter in the soil, which can improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. This, in turn, can lead to increased crop yields and a more resilient farming system.
Social Impact
Regenerative organic agriculture also has social benefits. By promoting biodiversity and reducing the use of synthetic inputs, regenerative agriculture can support the health of communities and the environment. Additionally, regenerative agriculture practices often prioritize the well-being of farmers and farm workers, creating a more sustainable and equitable food system.
Environmental Concerns are Changing How People Eat
As the world grapples with the environmental impact of modern agriculture, consumers are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint through the foods they eat. According to a GlobeScan study on behalf of the Marine Stewardship Council, about 31% of U.S. consumers who have changed their diets did so for environmental reasons, with 11% specifically citing climate change as a factor. As a result, certifications from organizations such as Fairtrade America, MSC, and Non-GMO Project are becoming more important, providing visual guidance for consumers looking to make sustainable choices.
In a Food Insight survey, regenerative agriculture was selected by 30% of respondents as one of the most beneficial agricultural and consumption practices for the land their food is grown on. Fairtrade America predicts an expanded focus on regenerative agriculture in 2023, as more brands work with farmers to implement these practices where ingredients are grown.
Regenerative agriculture, which involves a focus on soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration, is fast becoming the new standard for consumers seeking to protect their health and the planet. As a result, more brands are expected to adopt the "Regenerative Organic Certified" label, a certification that prioritizes regenerative agriculture practices.
Consumer Interest in Organic and Regenerative Organic
Consumers are becoming more aware of the benefits of regenerative organic agriculture, and are increasingly seeking out food and beverage products that are produced using these methods. According to a recent study by the Organic Trade Association, 82% of U.S. households purchase organic food at least occasionally.
Consumers are now increasingly demanding to know the origin of the products they buy, with 81% seeking transparency in their purchase of products. This demand for transparency is due to the rising use of harmful chemicals and pesticides that have a damaging influence on their health. This consumer awareness has given rise to the farm-to-fork traceability concept that allows consumers to trace their products and bring about transparency in the entire process.
Sustainable Products are Driving Growth
According to a MarketsandMarkets report, the regenerative agriculture market is expected to become a $16.8 billion dollar industry by 2027, a testament to the growing demand for sustainable agriculture practices. The 2021 Sustainable Market Share Index found that sustainability-marketed products were responsible for a third of growth in consumer packaged goods from 2015 to 2021, and market share growth continues year over year. Products marketed as sustainable now hold a 17% market share, up 3.3 percentage points from 2015, with significant growth during the pandemic. Also, products marketed as sustainable grew 2.7 times faster than products not marketed as sustainable.
Regenerative Agriculture was an emerging trend at the 2023 Natural Products Expo West that created a lot of buzz. As Jessica Rubino, New Hope's Vice President of Content, noted, "Regenerative gave the show a special energy. The movement feels like the early organic movement." In other words, regenerative agriculture is becoming the new "organic," a trend that is expected to continue well into 2023. Recoup® Beverage is proud to be on the leading edge of the trend, recently becoming the first beverage brand to be Regenerative Organic Certified®. All three Regenerative Organic Certified® flavors can be found in the Variety Pack.
In conclusion, with the growing focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness, it's no surprise that regenerative agriculture is becoming a key trend in the food industry. As consumers demand more transparency and sustainability in the products they buy, regenerative agriculture practices are expected to become even more prevalent in 2023 and beyond. By prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration, regenerative agriculture provides a roadmap for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.