The agricultural industry has been primarily guided by the need to produce more, to meet the demands of a growing population. Breeders have been continuously working to increase the quantity of output, from more grains or seeds per cob to more offspring per birth. However, the pursuit of quantity has its implications on quality.
Despite the efforts to improve the quality of crops and livestock, the focus on quantity can lead to the use of subpar inputs and practices that can compromise the quality of the final yield. In turn, this may affect the marketability and profitability of the products.
The challenges faced by the agricultural sector, including climate change, only make it more imperative to strike a balance between quantity and quality. Farmers must ensure that they use quality inputs and follow best practices to optimize their yields while maintaining the integrity and marketability of their products.
Ultimately, the pursuit of quantity should not come at the expense of quality. It is crucial to recognize the interdependence of the two and strive to achieve a balance that benefits both the farmers and the consumers.
By Albert Makendenge