GS3 – Agriculture
Context
India is set to introduce iron-rich biofortified potatoes to combat malnutrition and enhance the delivery of micronutrients through food-based strategies.
What are Biofortified Potatoes?
Biofortified potatoes are tubers bred through conventional and marker-assisted selection techniques to enhance their micronutrient content.
- Nutritional Profile:
- High in iron, zinc, and vitamin B6
- Low in phytates, improving mineral absorption
- Purpose:
- Reduce iron deficiency and anaemia
- Tackle hidden hunger in vulnerable populations
Global and Indian Initiatives
- Global Example:
- The first iron-rich potato was introduced in Peru by the International Potato Centre (CIP).
- Indian Adaptation:
- CIP shared germplasm with ICAR–CPRI, Shimla, to develop locally suitable varieties.
Benefits
- Nutrient Fortification: Enhances iron and zinc intake, addressing India’s widespread micronutrient gaps.
- Improved Absorption: Low phytate levels enhance iron uptake, even in traditional Indian diets that inhibit mineral absorption.
- Disease Resistance: Tolerance to late blight reduces dependence on fungicides in humid regions.
- B6 Enrichment: Supports haemoglobin synthesis, boosting iron’s impact against anaemia.
- Soil Adaptability: Performs well in acidic soils, increasing yields on India’s marginal lands.