It was already. But wheat grows better than rice in Europe. In fact, northern China grows more wheat than rice too, that being one of the big differences between northern and southern China.
Meaning at that time Italy and Southern Europe.Depends, in certain wet and marshy regions like the Po Valley rice was capable of high yields. The problem with rice was the need to have good irrigation systems, marsh reclamation, and skilled labour all of which involve high capital costs. That compared to the lower cost for wheat meant that it was only desirable once parts of Europe was rich enough and labour & land expensive enough.
Meaning at that time Italy and Southern Europe.
Now why would we do that when slaves in Egypt and the Black Sea are producing all the grain you need.
Rice can and has been grown in that Nile river delta as well. But I get your point, I think it would add to the diet of the people's maybe seen as citrus and apples once were, rare and expensive.Now why would we do that when slaves in Egypt and the Black Sea are producing all the grain you need.
Profit? If rice develops a reputation as a prestige or luxury food for the elite and the wealthy, it would command a premium price. That could make it worthwhile to grow in suitable regions even though there was a sufficient grain supply.
Profit? If rice develops a reputation as a prestige or luxury food for the elite and the wealthy, it would command a premium price. That could make it worthwhile to grow in suitable regions even though there was a sufficient grain supply.