Resumen
- The chapter explores the functional characteristics of yuca/cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), highlighting its crucial role in food security, animal feed, and medicinal uses. While roots are the primary product, leaves are an excellent forage option, providing nutritional supplementation during droughts, though they require processing such as drying or crushing and storage to reduce toxicity. Cassava forage offers high protein content and energy for animal feed, enhancing livestock productivity when integrated into diets alongside other nutritional supplements. In addition to its use in animal feed, cassava is a staple crop for millions, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and provides year-round food security. Cassava leaves, rich in protein and vitamins, are consumed in the North of Brazil and several African and Asian countries after postharvest processing. Medicinally, cassava leaves have antiinflammatory properties, showing promise for therapeutic applications. Overall, cassava’s versatility across various sectors underscores its importance in promoting sustainability and resource efficiency.