What crop is considered the most consumed staple in the world?

Rice is considered the most consumed staple food in the world primarily due to its widespread cultivation and consumption across various cultures, especially in Asia, where it serves as the dietary foundation for billions of people. It is an essential source of carbohydrates and provides the majority of daily caloric intake for many individuals in countries such as China, India, and Indonesia. Additionally, rice varieties are numerous, and they can be adapted to different climates and soil types, contributing to their global prevalence.

While corn and wheat are also significant staples and play essential roles in different regions, rice's unique status as a dietary staple in densely populated areas gives it the distinction of being the most consumed. Potatoes, while important, do not match the global consumption levels of rice, especially in terms of the number of people relying on it as a primary food source.