GERMPLASM ACCESSIONS WITH HIGH ASCORBIC ACID, IRON, AND ZINC: IDENTIFYING POTENTIAL NUTRIENT-RICH POTATOES

Abstract

Potatoes are a vital source of essential minerals, and their bioavailability is regulated by various factors, including the presence of promoters and inhibitors. Here, we present a study on the mineral content of eleven coloured skinned potato genotypes and advanced hybrids. The mineral composition of both the whole potato and tuber flesh was evaluated, and significant variation was observed depending on the genotype and tissue. Contrary to popular belief, potato peels were found to contain significant minerals. We identified four potential nutrient-rich genotypes that could serve as genetic stocks or be released as new varieties. Moreover, we found that bioavailability of minerals is crucial for their absorption, which is regulated by various factors. Our analysis revealed significant positive correlations between Fe-Zn, Cu-Zn, Ca-Zn, Cu-Fe, Ca-Fe, and Ca-Mn contents. Thus, biofortification of potatoes with essential minerals could address the food and nutritional security concerns of countries like India, which has seen a rise in the per capita consumption of fresh potatoes. Current breeding objectives for potato yield, resistance, and processing properties have limited variations in nutritional attributes. Consequently, identifying nutrient-rich germplasm accessions and high-yielding biofortified potato varieties could help in the development of nutrient-rich potatoes for food and nutritional security.