The Cold War Against Organic: How Organic Farming Came to America and Grew—Despite Intense Opposition

The story behind organic farming in America

What if the history of organic farming is not simply a story about what farmers stopped using—but a story about the ideas, people, and struggles that shaped an entirely different way of working with the land?

In The Cold War Against Organic, Anneliese Abbott explores how organic agriculture came to America and grew despite decades of intense opposition.

Through engaging historical storytelling and carefully researched accounts, Abbott traces the movement’s roots in soil stewardship, natural fertility, nutrition, and ecological farming. She introduces the farmers, scientists, nutritionists, publishers, and advocates who questioned the emerging dominance of chemical agriculture and helped develop the principles of organic farming.

The book follows the major debates that shaped the movement: compost versus chemical fertilizer, soil health versus short-term inputs, natural farming methods versus industrial approaches, and the relationship between the health of the soil, plants, animals, and people.

It also examines the opposition organic agriculture faced, including the scientific, commercial, and governmental forces that challenged its credibility during the mid-twentieth century. From early soil-fertility debates to the growing concern over pesticides and the rise of a new generation of organic advocates, this is a history filled with overlooked figures, surprising connections, and enduring questions.

More than a history of a farming label, The Cold War Against Organic is a story about how agricultural ideas take root, how movements survive resistance, and how the past continues to shape the way we grow and eat food today.

A compelling read for anyone interested in organic agriculture, soil health, sustainable farming, environmental history, food systems, and the people who helped build the organic movement.