Describe two ways in which the Columbian Exchange affected the diets of people in Europe and the Americas.

- **Diversification of Staple Crops:** In both Europe and the Americas, the Columbian Exchange introduced new staple crops that fundamentally altered traditional diets. For example, Europe gained access to high-calorie, nutrient-rich crops such as the potato and maize. The widespread adoption of the potato, represented by its energy content \( \mathrm{calories\ per\ gram} \), helped boost population growth due to its affordability and nutritional value. Conversely, the Americas saw the introduction of Old World cereals and vegetables such as wheat and rice, which began to supplement and sometimes replace indigenous crops in local diets. - **Introduction of New Foods and Culinary Practices:** The Exchange also led to the introduction of entirely new food items that changed culinary habits on both sides of the Atlantic. In Europe, foods like tomatoes, chili peppers, and cocoa were incorporated into regional cuisines, leading to innovative dishes and flavor profiles. Similarly, in the Americas, the introduction of Old World livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens not only provided new sources of protein but also altered agricultural practices and food preparation techniques, merging with indigenous methods to create hybrid culinary traditions.