What could be a consequence of persistent deterioration in an agricultural context?

In an agricultural context, persistent deterioration refers to the ongoing decline of various factors essential for farming, such as soil health, water quality, or overall ecosystem balance. When these factors worsen, one major consequence is lower product quality. This decline could manifest in several ways, like reduced nutrient content in crops, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, or the overall physical appearance of the produce.

As soil health diminishes, it may lead to poor plant growth, affecting the crops' flavor, appearance, and nutritional value. Additionally, when environmental conditions worsen due to factors like erosion or contamination, this can directly diminish the quality of the food produced. Thus, persistent deterioration in agriculture ultimately results in lower quality products, impacting both marketability and consumer satisfaction.