Global crop yields continue to rise, but food security challenges remain

A comprehensive study of global food production has found that over the past six decades, crop yields have continued to grow at roughly the same rate since the 1960s.

With nearly 10 billion people expected to live on Earth by 2050, agricultural production will play an increasingly important role in feeding a growing population.

Much of the growth in food production over the past six decades has been driven by technological advances, including the widespread adoption and use of better crop varieties. However, some studies suggest that production growth has leveled off, raising concerns about future food availability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries with the highest population growth.

Using a comprehensive index of calorie-based production and yields for 144 crops covering 98 percent of the world’s farmland and food production, researchers at the University of Idaho found that, at an aggregate level, global yield growth has not slowed over the past six decades.

The scientists also found that any slowdown in growth in individual crops, regions or countries was offset by growth in others.

While the study’s findings are encouraging for global food supplies, the scientists warn that sustainable food production and availability will remain challenges to global food security. These challenges are particularly pressing in the face of worsening climate change and increasing demand for food due to population and income growth.

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