diff --git a/code/modules/research/nanites/nanite_programs/utility.dm b/code/modules/research/nanites/nanite_programs/utility.dm
index 9f88f4a23f..4405401cec 100644
--- a/code/modules/research/nanites/nanite_programs/utility.dm
+++ b/code/modules/research/nanites/nanite_programs/utility.dm
@@ -184,7 +184,6 @@
 /datum/nanite_program/metabolic_synthesis
 	name = "Metabolic Synthesis"
 	desc = "The nanites use the metabolic cycle of the host to speed up their replication rate, using their extra nutrition as fuel."
-	use_rate = -0.5 //generates nanites
 	rogue_types = list(/datum/nanite_program/toxic)
 
 /datum/nanite_program/metabolic_synthesis/check_conditions()
@@ -197,6 +196,7 @@
 
 /datum/nanite_program/metabolic_synthesis/active_effect()
 	host_mob.nutrition -= 0.5
+	nanites.adjust_nanites(0.5)
 
 /datum/nanite_program/triggered/access
 	name = "Subdermal ID"
@@ -262,4 +262,4 @@
 		var/datum/nanite_program/fault = pick(nanites.programs)
 		if(fault == src)
 			return
-		fault.software_error()
\ No newline at end of file
+		fault.software_error()