Organic Produce Association Endorses the Meeting Demand for Organic Produce Act
February 6, 2026The Organic Produce Association (OPA) proudly endorses the Meeting Demand for Organic Produce Act, legislation that will support farmers transitioning to organic production and meet the growing demand for certified organic products. Theo Cristantes, Chairman of the Organic Produce Association, stated:
“The Organic Produce Association applauds the introduction of this legislation which would help farmers seeking to transition to organic agriculture. The organic industry has changed and grown since the inception of the National Organic Program, and this legislation will help the industry continue to do so. We commend Representative Newhouse for his continued leadership and support of organics by advancing policies that support innovation and growth in the industry. This legislation upholds USDA’s gold-standard requirements for the organic seal, supports producers and helps ensure we continue to have a strong and reliable supply of certified organic products to meet rising consumer demand.”
This legislation would allow farmers to test their soil or growing medium with a method approved by the Secretary of Agriculture. If testing shows no prohibited substances are present, and all other USDA organic requirements are met, farmers could move directly to organic certification without waiting for the currently required three-year transition period.
In September 2024, OPA released a comprehensive economic analysis highlighting the potential benefits of modernizing the organic certification process. The study found that allowing farmers to test out of the transition period could:
- Deliver economic benefits to both producers and consumers of organic products
- Provide more affordable organic produce for consumers
- Reduce barriers of entry for organic producers which will increase the number of farmers transitioning to organic production
The Organic Produce Association looks forward to working with Representative Newhouse and Congress to advance this legislation and support a thriving, sustainable organic industry that continues to meet consumer demand.