India’s Nutrient-Rich Purple Potato

Why in News?

Scientists are developing biofortified crops to address hidden hunger, a condition in which people consume sufficient calories but do not obtain adequate essential vitamins and minerals. ICAR–Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI) has developed nutrient-rich coloured potato varieties to improve the nutritional quality of commonly consumed foods.

What Is Hidden Hunger?

Hidden hunger refers to micronutrient deficiencies caused by inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, even when calorie intake is sufficient. It can affect health, growth and overall well-being.

About Biofortification

Biofortification is the process of increasing the nutritional content of crops, particularly essential vitamins and minerals, through plant breeding.  Unlike conventional food fortification, which adds nutrients during processing, biofortification integrates nutrition directly into the crop. 

• Objective: To improve the nutritional quality of commonly consumed foods.
• Approach: Develop crop varieties with higher levels of essential nutrients.
• Difference from food fortification: Biofortification enhances nutrient content during crop development, whereas conventional food fortification adds nutrients during food processing.
• Significance: It offers a potentially sustainable and cost-effective approach to addressing micronutrient deficiencies and strengthening long-term nutritional security.

Coloured Potato Varieties Developed by ICAR-CPRI

Coloured potatoes have red, purple or blue flesh or skin due to natural pigments such as anthocyanins and carotenoids. These compounds contribute to their antioxidant properties. Some varieties also contain enhanced levels of micronutrients such as iron and zinc.

Variety	Year of release	Key features
Kufri Neelkanth	2018	First purple-skinned specialty potato variety developed by ICAR-CPRI.
Kufri Manik	2021	Produces attractive, deep-red, round tubers with medium-sized eyes and yellow flesh.
Kufri Jamunia	2024	Contains higher levels of ascorbic acid, anthocyanins and carotenoids than Kufri Manik and Kufri Neelkanth. Its purple flesh indicates high antioxidant content; it also contains enhanced levels of zinc and iron.

Significance of Biofortified Potatoes

1. Combating hidden hunger: Can help improve the intake of essential micronutrients.
2. Improving dietary quality: Enhances the nutritional value of a widely consumed staple food.
3. Nutritional security: Supports efforts to address micronutrient deficiencies through regular diets.
4. Agricultural innovation: Demonstrates the role of crop breeding and agricultural research in improving public health.
5. Sustainable nutrition: Offers a way to improve nutrient intake through crops themselves, reducing exclusive dependence on post-harvest fortification.

Source: PIB

CLICK HERE: UPSC PRELIMS & MAINS CURRENT AFFAIRS BASED WEEKLY TEST (ENG & HINDI)

CLICK HERE FOR GS TIMES PRAHAR UPSC GS MAINS TEST SERIES 

CLICK HERE: DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS QUIZ (FOR ALL EXAMINATIONS)