Final answer:
The classical period of biotechnology revolutionized food production by introducing transgenic crops and improving farming efficiency. This has resulted in more manageable and cost-effective production methods, as well as advancements in the nutritional quality and safety of food products.
Step-by-step explanation:
The classical period of biotechnology brought about significant changes in the commercial production of foods. This era was marked by the beginning of using biological processes to make or modify products for specific commercial uses. Early practices of biotechnology included fermentation processes used to create products like cheese, wine, bread, beer, and yogurt; however, as technology progressed, so did the methods of food production.
During the Industrial Revolution, there was a shift from subsistence farming to more profitable, high-yield crop production. Innovations in agricultural biotechnology have led to the development of transgenic crops that are resistant to pests and diseases or tolerant to herbicides, making food production more efficient and lowering costs. Additionally, biotechnology has also contributed to the nutritional enhancement of food, increased shelf-life, and the reduction of harmful substances in food products.
Cheaper and More Manageable Production
Modern biotechnology provides farmers with tools that make food production more economical and manageable. Crops engineered for specific traits ensure simpler weed control and more reliable pest management, which also brings the advantage of reducing synthetic pesticide usage. This enables countries to meet growing demands for food while also cutting production expenses.
Overall, the classic period in biotechnology fundamentally changed the way food is grown, processed, and distributed, elevating the efficiency and scale of commercial food production.