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Grains are staples because they provide a lot of calories. More calories means more photosynthesis, so more incident light. The marginal energy cost would thus
by chris_va 6y ago
Grains are staples because they provide a lot of calories.
More calories means more photosynthesis, so more incident light. The marginal energy cost would thus be a lot higher. The cost for lettuce, however, is probably dominated by refrigeration/shipping/logistics. So, from a fundamental cost standpoint (unless you have very low cost energy), that's likely going to be a while.
- bilbo0s 6y agoIt's more simple than that even, grains are simply more portable and last longer. Those two properties are the major reasons they are the staples of our diets. There's little sense in growing and processing them on site at food distribution centers. Growing and storing them within a reasonable distance of food distribution facilities is sufficient for sustainable reliance on grains. I believe rice can be stored safely for years given the right conditions. There are no sustainable conditions under which leafy greens can be stored for as long as rice.