Most of Them Aren’t, But Yield Growth Remains Critical

Senior Food and Agriculture Analyst at the Breakthrough Institute Emma Kovak analyzes U.S. crop yield trends, noting that while overall yields for major crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton continue to rise, the pace of growth has slowed in recent years due largely to short-term weather events and expansion onto marginal land. She explains that these fluctuations fit within historical variability and do not yet indicate a long-term decline, though some specialty crops are experiencing genuine yield decreases driven by factors such as disease, extreme weather, and shifts toward organic production. Kovak emphasizes the need for increased agricultural R&D, advancements in breeding and biotechnology, and proportionate regulations to sustain future yield growth and meet rising global food demand.

Read the full article from the Breakthrough Institute for a deeper look at U.S. crop performance and its implications.