The number of organic farmers continues to increase at record levels. According to USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service there are now 21,781 certified organic farms in the United States and 31,160 around the world.

The number of certified organic operations increased by almost 12% between 2014 and 2015. This is the highest increase since 2008 and an increase of nearly 300% since 2002.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack says, “Organic food is one of the fasting growing segments of American agriculture. As consumer demand for organic products continues to grow, the USDA organic seal has become a leading global standard.”

The retail market for organic products is valued at more than $39 billion in the United States and over $75 billion worldwide.