Rice Field in Prey Lang Photo: PLCN

New research shows that the rise of CO₂ in the atmosphere causes a rise of sugar levels in our foods – this makes other nutrients such as minerals, vitamins and protein drop. The research measured nutrients in fruits and vegetables over the past 70 years, and found a significant decline of minerals, vitamins and proteins – and a peak in sugar levels.

Among researchers, it has previously been assumed that the cause for the rising sugar level in foods, was due to farmer’s breeding and selection of crops for higher outcome. A choice which has helped them increase their production, but ignores the production of nutrients.

CO₂ is alongside water and light one of the most important components for the existence of our plants. The logical conclusion would be that rising CO₂ level is a good thing for our plants and agriculture in general. However, this research shows that a greater volume of food production and better quality might not go hand-in-hand. If the rise of CO₂ in our atmosphere continues and our plants keeps diluting important nutrients, which is replaced by sugar, the world could be facing a great nutrient collapse.

Earlier this summer, the researchers published the first studies, that estimates what this lack of nutrients in our food would mean for the global population. In some parts of the world, especially in developing countries, proteins from plants is vital for the survival of millions of people. The researchers expect that by 2050, 150 million people could be in life-threatening protein shortage.

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