The majority of the organic producers and handlers of organic product in Michigan are certified by one or more of the 30 privately established certification agencies in the US. The two most frequently used certification agencies operating in Michigan are the Organic Growers of Michigan (OGM) and the Organic Crop Improvement Association International (OCIA).

In Michigan, 6 growers were first certified "organic" in 1973 by the newly established Organic Growers of Michigan Cooperative (Kaufman). Later renamed the Organic Growers of Michigan, it has developed the certification program most commonly used by Michigan producers. OGM is a non-profit organization of more than 200 organic farmers, gardeners, and friends who are interested in organic practices and organically grown food. This organization is the second oldest statewide organic certifying agency in the US and is organized into 7 chapters throughout Michigan.

Another private certification agency used by Michigan growers, processors, and manufacturers is the Organic Crop Improvement Association International. OCIA is an internationally recognized, farmer-owned and operated grass roots certification program. It was chartered in Michigan in 1988 and now includes 3 chapters providing local education and support to its members. Most Michigan organic exports are OCIA certified because of its international recognition.

Early in 1991 a new non-profit organization was established. Initially named the Michigan Organic Grower Advancement Project and later renamed as the Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance (MOFFA), the organization promotes the development of food systems that rely on organic methods of food production and that revitalize and sustain local communities.

The State of Michigan has neither a certification program nor standards, leaving Michigan producers to label organic products as they choose and letting consumers decide among a confusing array of labels - "organic", "natural", "green", to name three. However, MDA and MSU have both assigned staff to work on organic and sustainable agriculture issues in response to increased farmer, consumer and buyer interest in organic production and products. MSU has increased its involvement in organic agriculture research and education with the appointment of a C.S. Mott Endowed Professor in Sustainable Agriculture. The creation of this position has catalyzed a wide range of new activities in organic research and education at MSU.

Although statistics are not being currently collected regarding the organic industry in Michigan, it is estimated that nearly 300 growers are certified organic and an unknown number are organic but not certified. There are approximately 18 processors, 20 wholesalers, and 1000 retailers of organic products in the state. Michigan organic exports are also experiencing growth parallel to that at the national level, about 25 percent annually (Organic Farmers of Michigan data).

Based upon the information reviewed by the Organic Advisory Committee, the Committee believes that the reasons to focus on Michigan organics are compelling. Expansion of the organic industry will lead to economic and environmental benefits for all Michigan consumers and producers.