Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Rising CO2 Boosts Yields but Diminishes Nutritional Quality

12/21/2025

40 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A Leiden University study led by Sterre ter Haar finds that rising CO2 increases crop yields but lowers nutritional quality.
The analysis of 109 studies shows significant declines in nutrients, with zinc dropping up to 37.5%.
CO2 enrichment boosts food availability but risks hidden hunger—calorie intake may rise while nutrients fall.
The study calls for more work to balance yield and nutrient density, noting the Netherlands as a major exporter.

1 of 1

Story summary

A Leiden University study led by Sterre ter Haar finds that rising CO2 increases crop yields but lowers nutritional quality.
The analysis of 109 studies shows significant declines in nutrients, with zinc dropping up to 37.5%.
CO2 enrichment boosts food availability but risks hidden hunger—calorie intake may rise while nutrients fall.
The study calls for more work to balance yield and nutrient density, noting the Netherlands as a major exporter.