What is the theoretical basis of the statement that we could feed more people if we would eat grain rather than feeding it to livestock?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that energy is lost in the conversion of one form to another, and that this loss is greatest when the energy is converted from a higher to a lower form. When we feed grain to livestock, only a portion of the energy in the grain is passed on to the animals, while a significant amount is lost as heat, movement, and waste. In contrast, if we were to consume the grain directly, we would retain much more of its energy, which could then be used to nourish more people. Therefore, it is more efficient to eat grain directly than to use it as livestock feed.

What Is the Theoretical Basis of the Statement That We