Jul 3, 2019Potatoes packed with additional nutrients developed by scientists
Scientists at the International Potato Centre (CIP) in Peru are seeking to supply the world with a “super potato,” packed with additional nutrients, to help tackle malnutrition in developing nations.
Biofortification is the term used describing the method of packing additional amounts of zinc and iron into new breeds of potatoes. Work began on the process 15 years ago, reported Anne Gulland of the UK-based Telegraph.
The newer varieties, which have been successfully grown in Peru’s highlands, contain 40 to 80% more micronutrients than other cultivars grown there. Currently, they’re being tested in eastern Africa and will soon be introduced to Asian nations, such as Bangladesh and Nepal. Oscar Ortiz, the director of CIP, anticipates the varieties will be available by 2021, barring setbacks.
The same method of biofortification was used to enhance sweet potatoes with additional vitamin A, which won a World Food Prize award in 2016. That breed of sweet potatoes is now being planted in Africa.
Be sure to check out The Telegraph’s full story for more information.
