We are definitely lucky to be born in thus era where we have technology to aid our work and make almost everything seamless. With the vast growing population, we are even more lucky to have machineries help us with agricultural activities inorder that enough food is produced to feed everyone.
To every pro, though, there's a con. With the introduction of these devices,I think that focus has been shifted to just producing more and more whether or not it meets the nutritional level and health requirements of the consumers.
I think many veggies are becoming less nutritious. But, if it helps, they are generally prettier to look at (flavor and nutrition aside). Studies sometimes blame soil depletion, but there are other factors that contribute to the marked decrease in nutrition.
Factors such as
▪︎ Focus on yield: We are not a rural society, and increased populations demand more food. Yields have gone through the roof over time, but quality has decreased
▪︎Lower costs: That's just an obvious focal point that drives yield. The use of these technological devices and materials is far less cost-effective and productive than manual labor.
▪︎They don't grow them like they used to: There's been a huge focus on increased disease-resistance, longer shelf life, improved transport, and on consumer appeal...
...and many more.
Also, some forms of food preparation technology have allowed foods to be stored longer, shipped further, etc. but may separate, reduce, or destroy some micro-nutrients that are important for health. Consider that many processed foods are low in fiber, or use added fiber. This is not entirely the same as consuming whole fruits and vegetables, which might take longer to digest.
I firmly believe that we should never compromise on whatever goes into our mouths. The good of technology is far-reaching, and too, the effects are hot beyond our control.
Very importantly, factors such as climate changes and environmental pollution, certain harvesting practices relating to harvesting produces before they are sufficiently mature and/or ripe, soil depletion which is a result of intensive farming on a land, long storage and transportation systems need to all be tackled inorder that we get produces that have higher nutrient levels.
Technology has been helpful, but the issue surrounding its use and effects, especially as it regard the nutrient level of foods, is largely due to the human effect. I mean, we can't rule out the fact that some persons are more interested in producing in larger quantities, selling out, and making profits than caring about the qualities.
We shouldn't have to pay any price, especially not one that may spring with effects to wellbeing for the introduction and use of technology. Meanwhile, I don't think that the original design for these machines was to bring about a drop in quality. However, proper management's and control need to be made so we get just the best cause, the issue is with those who handle the produces and not the machines.
Thanks for gracing this post.
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