By David Lambert A discussion on global food security stress
points should perhaps begin with the work of economist Thomas
Malthus about 200 years ago. Malthus theorized that food
production could increase only gradually (largely because of
limitations of land), while population could rise exponentially.
He concluded that since population will outpace food production,
hunger and famine are inevitable. So far, our progress in
sustainable ag practices, new technologies and increased
productivity have defeated Malthus’ theory. Corn yields have
nearly doubled in the past 30 years, and one American farmer now
produces enough food for 155 people. However, given current
population projections, coupled with global food demands, some
say Malthus’ theory is still lurking. Let’s take a look.
Population. A 70% increase in food production will be required
to support our population jump from 7 billion to more than 9
billion by 2050. That’s the equivalent of adding two more Chinas
to the planet. It is not the big number of