What distinguishes commercial farming from other types of farming?

Commercial farming is characterized primarily by its focus on maximizing yield per area with the goal of generating profit. This approach often utilizes advanced agricultural techniques, high-yield crop varieties, and extensive use of inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides to produce as much food as possible in the most efficient manner. The end goal is to sell the produce in markets, thereby contributing to economic gain for the farmer or farming business.

In contrast, other types of farming, such as subsistence farming, prioritize producing enough food to feed the farmers and their families rather than focusing on market sales. Additionally, practices centered on environmentally sustainable methods may not directly prioritize profit maximization. While raising animals is a component of some farming methods, commercial farming encompasses a broader array of crops and livestock without being limited to one focus. Thus, the emphasis on profit-driven production differentiates commercial farming from these other farming practices.