Research has found that the mineral content of modern fruits and vegetables is, on average, 5% to 40% lower than that of the same crops harvested 50 years ago. These minerals include magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, and others. Larger fruits and vegetables, in turn, have less nutrition.
Researchers explain that larger agricultural products typically contain more "dry matter," which dilutes the concentrated mineral components—a phenomenon known as the "dilution effect." In other words, when growing fruits and vegetables, smaller individuals tend to have more nutritional value. Additionally, modern agricultural practices, which focus on yield and industrialized production, affect the nutrient content of crops. "We might need to increase our consumption," experts suggest. For instance, the amount of vitamins you used to get from one tomato now requires eating one kiwi to compensate. Furthermore, when selecting fruits and vegetables, try to avoid buying those that are not yet ripe.