A grain plant that originated in Mesoamerica and is widely cultivated for its edible seeds. It has become one of the most important staple crops worldwide.
Related terms
Staple Crop: A crop that is regularly consumed in large quantities by a significant proportion of the population.
Subsistence Agriculture: Agricultural practices aimed at producing enough food for immediate consumption rather than for sale.
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO): An organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.