Corn and soybeans fuel US economy and food supply

Crops power feed fuel exports and rural prosperity

Corn and soybeans may not appear directly on dinner plates, but they power much of what Americans eat. These crops feed livestock, fuel renewable energy, and drive global exports, forming the backbone of U.S. agriculture.

In 2023, farmers harvested over 15.3 billion bushels of corn from 86.5 million acres and 4.16 billion bushels of soybeans from 82 million acres. Most of this production goes to livestock feed, biofuel, and export markets — not directly into processed foods.

Corn use is roughly 35% for animal feed, 33% for ethanol, 14% for exports, 8% for food and industry, and 11% stored. Soybeans are used about 30% for feed, 7% for renewable fuel, 56% for exports, with the rest stored or processed.

Feed is the largest driver of demand, with corn providing energy and soybean meal supplying protein for cattle, pigs, poultry, and even fish farms. These feeds keep meat, dairy, and eggs affordable.

Economically, agriculture contributed over $1.5 trillion to the U.S. GDP in 2023. Corn generated $151 billion in total output, while soybeans added more than $124 billion. Together, they support millions of jobs and rural communities.

Exports are key, with corn and soybeans accounting for $40.7 billion in bulk exports last year. These sales strengthen U.S. competitiveness and deliver value to related industries.

Thanks to improved seed genetics, machinery, and precision farming, yields have risen sharply since 1990, producing more crops with fewer resources. Without these gains, over 80 million additional acres would be needed today.

Corn and soybeans are more than commodities — they are vital to food security, renewable energy, and economic stability in America and beyond.