What does the phrase "the malnutrition that plagued humankind" emphasize in Passage 1?

The phrase "the malnutrition that plagued humankind" underscores the severity and widespread nature of malnutrition as a pressing global issue. The significance lies in highlighting the struggles faced by many communities in accessing adequate and nutritious food, which is fundamental for health and well-being. Therefore, the emphasis reveals how changes in agricultural practices can play a pivotal role in addressing this issue. For example, advancements in farming techniques, distribution systems, and food policies can lead to an increase in food availability and promote better nutrition. As a result, this focus on malnutrition reflects the importance of agricultural developments in improving the quality of life for many, which aligns with the idea of saving lives through better practices.

While other options might touch on aspects of food security or quality, they do not capture the direct link between malnutrition and changes needed to mitigate it as effectively as the chosen answer does.