Global Fertilizer Day survey results show many Americans underestimate the importance of mineral fertilizers in boosting crop yields and feeding a growing population.
A new survey released in recognition of Global Fertilizer Day reveals that only 20% of U.S. adults know that approximately half of global food production depends on mineral fertilizers.
The YouGov poll, commissioned by the International Fertilizer Association (IFA), surveyed 1,271 U.S. adults to assess public understanding of fertilizers and their contribution to global food security.
The findings indicate that many Americans understand the basic purpose of fertilizers but have limited knowledge of their broader importance in agriculture.
About 66% of respondents correctly identified that fertilizers supply crops with essential nutrients, while 60% recognized nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as the nutrient's plants need in the largest quantities. However, 8% incorrectly believed fertilizers are primarily used to kill insects and other crop pests.
The awareness of fertilizers' contribution to food production was considerably lower. Although roughly half of the world's food production relies on mineral fertilizers, only one in five respondents selected the correct estimate. Meanwhile, 36% said they were unsure, while the remaining participants estimated figures either above or below the actual proportion.
The survey also highlighted uncertainty about fertilizers' role in feeding the global population and improving agricultural land use. Only 44% agreed that mineral fertilizers are essential to feeding the world's current population.
Additionally, 31% recognized that fertilizers could help reduce the need to convert more land for food production, while 53% were uncertain.
“These findings show that much more needs to be done to explain the essential role mineral fertilizers play in feeding today’s population and enabling farmers to produce more food from limited agricultural land," IFA CEO/Director General Alzbeta Klein said.
“By working with our members across the global fertilizer supply chain, we want to encourage a much broader and better-informed conversation about what it takes to feed the world,” Klein added.
The survey shows that most consumers do not understand the connection between fertilizer and food production.
The study was released for Global Fertilizer Day, observed annually on October 13, it recognizes the vital role fertilizers play in supporting global food production and food security.
The day commemorates the 1908 discovery of the Haber-Bosch process, which enabled the large-scale production of ammonia fertilizer and helped fuel significant gains in agricultural productivity.
Global Fertilizer Day works to raise awareness of how responsible fertilizer use helps farmers grow more food on existing farmland, improve crop yields, and nourish a growing global population.
The day also highlights ongoing innovation in plant nutrition, soil health, nutrient stewardship, and sustainable farming practices that contribute to feeding the world while protecting natural resources.
During the same week, World Food Day is celebrated annually on October 16, the 2026 theme is "Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.” This year’s theme highlights the role of science, technology, innovation, and traditional knowledge in building resilient agrifood systems that can feed a growing global population while protecting natural resources.
Maybe celebrating Fertilizer Day and Food Day in the same week will help to fill the knowledge gap with consumers.
Photo Credit: global-fertilizer-day