These are specifically engineered varieties of crops designed to produce significantly more output per unit of land compared to traditional seeds. For example, strains of wheat and rice developed during the Green Revolution exemplified this, allowing for substantially increased harvests in developing nations.
The adoption of these improved varieties offered considerable benefits, contributing to increased food security and economic gains, particularly in regions facing food shortages. Historically, they played a pivotal role in preventing widespread famine and boosting agricultural productivity during the mid-20th century.