Final answer:
Maleic hydrazide is beneficial in potato production as it acts as a plant growth regulator that helps preserve potato quality and reduces dependence on harmful pesticides. This contributes to environmental sustainability, improves food safety, and offers economic advantages by decreasing pesticide costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of maleic hydrazide in potato production offers several benefits. It acts as a plant growth regulator that inhibits sprouting during storage, thus preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of potatoes. This is particularly important for commercial potato producers who need to ensure their produce remains in optimal condition for sale over extended periods. Maleic hydrazide also reduces the dependency on other chemicals such as sprout inhibitors or pesticides, which can have environmental and health impacts.
Additionally, maleic hydrazide can contribute to improved food safety by reducing the proliferation of pests and diseases without the excessive use of harmful pesticides, as demonstrated in Carchi, Ecuador, where large quantities of toxic pesticides were previously used. By minimizing the need for these substances, there are economic benefits due to decreased expenditure on pesticides and environmental benefits through reduced chemical runoff into the ecosystem.
Lastly, the use of maleic hydrazide aligns with the sustainable agricultural practices that focus on minimizing the environmental footprint of food production and promoting the health and safety of both consumers and agricultural workers.