How Purple Potatoes Offer a Nutritional Boost Against 'Hidden Hunger'
Hidden hunger occurs when individuals consume sufficient calories, yet their diet lacks essential vitamins and minerals. To address this issue, scientists at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI) have developed nutrient-rich, colorful potato varieties capable of enhancing the nutritional value of everyday meals.
These varieties include 'Kufri Neelkanth,' 'Kufri Manik,' and 'Kufri Jamuniya.' Packed with antioxidants and micronutrients, these potatoes serve as an excellent alternative to conventional varieties.
Nutritional benefits
The 'Kufri Jamuniya' variety, released in 2024, is particularly notable for its nutritional benefits. Its flesh is purple and contains anthocyanins, carotenoids, and vitamin C, as well as iron and zinc. According to available data, it contains approximately 42.75 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams, compared to 23.15 mg in regular potatoes.
Highly beneficial for farmers
This variety is also advantageous from an agricultural perspective. When cultivated properly, it can yield 32–35 tonnes per hectare. It has a long shelf life, is resistant to spoilage, and experiences minimal weight loss during storage—all of which can be highly beneficial for farmers.
An attractive ingredient for processed food products
'Kufri Jamuniya' can be cultivated in the plains of North India. It is versatile in the kitchen and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as curries, parathas, puris, raita, and various snacks. Due to its purple color, it could also serve as an attractive ingredient for processed food products, such as potato flour and various baked goods.
Other two varieties also offer distinct nutritional benefits
The other two varieties earlier developed by scientists include include red and blue-fleshed potatoes. They also offer their own distinct nutritional benefits. 'Kufri Neelkanth', released in 2018, is known for its antioxidant properties, while 'Kufri Manik', released in 2021, contains anthocyanins, iron, and zinc.
These colorful potatoes represent an excellent combination of nutritional value and agricultural potential. Increased cultivation and consumption would diversify people's diets and help improve nutritional security. However, their contribution to addressing 'hidden hunger' will also depend on factors such as their affordability, ease of availability, and the extent to which people incorporate them into their regular diets.