Growers with experience in grain production might consider ways to add value to the grain crops that they're familiar with by growing specialty versions of those grains. These specialties can be divided into crops of a special type, and crops grown in a special way. Some special types are bred or genetically engineered to have a desired characteristic, such as high-oil corn. Other special types might include edible soybeans, popcorn, colored corns, and so on. Usually, these special types are grown in pretty much the same way as their conventional counterparts.
Crops can also be specialties if they are produced in unconventional ways.
While some of these products are also based on special types and varieties of commodities, many are simply conventional cultivars, produced according to certain guidelines. While certified organic production is most familiar, there are more and more alternatives available for farmers who don't want the risk of abandoning agrochemicals entirely. There ARE ways to farm more sustainably while still capturing some of the natural product premiums. One alternative to the rigors of organic certification is provided by American Food Growers. For Profit 4345 Hwy.