A longshoreman’s strike is the latest test for organic feed supply chains. This stoppage, the first since 1977 at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports, involves 25,000 dock workers after the US Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) failed to reach an agreement.

Fourteen major ports from New England to the Gulf Coast are now closed, with Baltimore’s work stoppage posing a threat to organic imports  However, the recent closure of the Port of Baltimore prompted importers to seek viable alternative routes. This will come in handy.

Unlike conventional grains carried in bulk carriers, organic commodities are frequently containerized. Containerized cargo will be affected by an extended work stoppage, though some ports may be operating on a limited basis.

Morehead City, a common destination for organic corn shipments, will purportedly continue with yard operations,…