Cassava: The Controversial Crop Feeding Half a Billion People
Cassava—also known as manioc or yuca—is a starchy root vegetable with ancient roots in Central and South America. Today, it’s a dietary cornerstone for over 500 million people across tropical regions, prized for its ability to thrive in poor soils and withstand drought, making it a lifeline in areas where food insecurity is a daily reality.
Despite its deadly reputation when improperly prepared, cassava continues to be a global staple. Rich in vitamin C to boost immunity and copper to support brain function and energy, this humble tuber packs surprising nutritional benefits.
In kitchens around the world—from the street stalls of Nigeria to the markets of Thailand and Indonesia—cassava shows off its versatility. It’s boiled, mashed, fried, or baked, filling plates and stomachs much like potatoes. Its adaptability, resilience, and high-energy value make it indispensable—even as the risks linger.