Should organic certification be banned for hydroponic crops?

THE USDA RECOMMENDATION ALSO INCLUDES BANNING AQUAPONICS AND AEROPONICS.

The proposal would allow for some types of container production systems that meet the nitrogen formulas provided by the Crops Subcommittee.

Aquaponics is being defined as a recirculating hydroponic plant production system in which plants are grown in nutrients originating from aquatic animal wastewater. Aeroponics is defined as a variation of hydroponic plant production in which plant roots are suspended in air and misted with nutrient solution. And Hydroponics is listed as any container production system that does not meet the standard limit of 20% of the plant's nitrogen requirement being supplied by liquid feeding, and a limit of 50% of the plant's nitrogen requirement being added to the container after the crop has been planted.

Recently, the Organic Trade Association reported that the demand for organic food will continue to grow among millennials as they have children. Roughly a quarter of millennials currently have started a family, but that number is expected to grow to 80% during the next 10 - 15 years.

Nielsen found that 88% of U.S. households have purchased organic foods and beverages. Baby food led the list for the most important food at 40%.

But for some households, the price can be a deterrent in purchasing organic. However, there are private-label options that offer organic products at a more affordable price point.

With the need growing, how will organic growers keep up with the demand as the availability of organic products continues to expand from grocery stores, warehouse clubs, restaurants to delis?

The USDA will give the public an opportunity to comment on their proposals in writing, via a web conference on October 24, or in person on October 31.