The organic movement in the United States began in the 1960’s and 1970’s when people began to demand a higher standard in food quality. As more natural grocery stores began to appear, the movement accelerated and led to the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, which prohibited synthetic substances from being used in food and product production. In the early 2000’s, the population en masse began to seek out natural and organic products, and thus, the certification accreditation body has grown to keep up with this demand. But who are the leaders in organic foods and products? Today, we’ll take a look at some of the pioneers in the organic space, and some of the organic newcomers.
Why Consumers Prefer Organic Products
Well, the simple answer is that American people are seeking cleaner products to put in and on their bodies. People began to understand the link between diet, overall health, and the environment around them. In fact, U.S. organic sales broke through the $55 billion mark in 2019, according to the Organic Trade Association.
The Pioneers of Organics
Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Organic brand created its first batch of organic products back in 1972. Founder, John Battendieri, began revitalizing apple orchards in Santa Cruz, and took his passion one step further by going fully organic. Today, the Santa Cruz brand has an array of products ranging from juices to peanut butter and more.
Sprouts Markets
Sprouts started when Henry Boney started a product stand in San Diego in 1943. Originally named Henry’s Farmers Market, it was sold to Wild Oats Market in the 1990s. Long after this, Henry’s son and grandson opened the first Sprouts Farmers Market in 2002 in Chandler, Arizona.
Whole Foods
Whole Foods Market is the world’s largest retailer of natural and organic foods, with over 155 stores. Founded in 1978, Whole Foods Market became the first U.S. grocer to have its retail operations designated as “Certified Organic”.
New Kids on the Block
Desert Essence
The Desert Essence brand has been creating beautiful organic products for years using botanicals like Tea Tree, Jojoba, and Argan Oil. They specialize in personal care products and are committed to harvesting ingredients that are sustainably sourced, and their product assortment continues to expand.
Organic Valley
When the farmers in Southwest Wisconsin refused to be bought by the industrial farming system, they banded together and created one of the best farmer-owned cooperatives of their time. They declined to be chemical farmers, and farmer George Siemon was the one who led this strategic revolt. Their new way of working together protected the land, livestock, economy, and the community’s health.
Potager Soap Company
Potager is a woman-owned, family-run, multi-generational company. This organic soap company is motivated to create the cleanest line of soap on the market, and they’re becoming better known for their personal care products. Their organic soap uses certified olive oil and other certified organic plant oils, as the base and certified organic botanicals like lavender buds, patchouli, and peppermint for some of their scents.
The organic industry came from humble beginnings and is continuing to drive forward. Younger generations are carrying the torch and insisting on cleaner, and healthier products. Established companies are forced to find purer ingredients for their products, or they will be left behind. It’s no wonder why parents 18 to 34-year-olds are the largest supporters of organic products in the country.
Hi, I am Subhajit Khara a lifestyle blogger. Besides blogging, I like to play cricket and watch CR7 playing. You can reach out to me at wittythink.com
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