tärkkelyskasvien

Tärkkelyskasvit, known in English as starch crops, are plants that are cultivated primarily for their high starch content, which serves as a crucial food source for humans and animals. These plants are a fundamental part of global agriculture and food security, providing a significant portion of the world's calorie intake.

The most prominent starch crops include cereals like wheat, rice, maize (corn), and barley, as well as tubers such as potatoes and cassava. These plants store energy in the form of starch, a complex carbohydrate, within their seeds, roots, or tubers. Starch is easily digestible and broken down into glucose, providing readily available energy for the body.

The cultivation of starch crops is widespread, with different varieties adapted to diverse climates and soil conditions. They are a staple food in many cultures, forming the basis of diets ranging from bread and pasta made from wheat and rice to stews and porridges featuring potatoes and cassava. Beyond direct consumption, starch crops are also processed into various food products and industrial materials. For example, corn starch is used as a thickener in cooking and as a component in biofuels and biodegradable plastics. The efficiency with which these plants produce and store carbohydrates makes them indispensable to the global food system and economy.