Tag: Food crops

Paraquat is a restricted-use pesticide, and while banned in over 60 countries, it remains widely used in the US on dozens of crops, including common foods like corn, soy, and wheat. This powerful herbicide is applied for various reasons in agriculture, prompting questions about what food is paraquat used in and the safety surrounding its use.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), a small number of crops provide the bulk of global energy intake. A staple food is a food item that is eaten regularly and in such quantities that it constitutes the primary portion of a standard diet for a given population, supplying a large percentage of energy and nutrient needs. The resilience, affordability, and nutritional density of these crops make them crucial for feeding the world's population. Understanding the top 5 staple foods sheds light on the foundation of many culinary traditions and the bedrock of global food security.

The potato is the world's third most important food crop, consumed by over a billion people daily and playing a pivotal role in human history and nutrition. But why are potatoes important to humans beyond just being a dietary staple? This article delves into the nutritional, historical, and environmental reasons behind the potato's enduring global significance.