Biofortified Potatoes – Nutrition, Benefits & Indian Initiatives

Biofortified potatoes are special varieties enriched with iron, zinc, and vitamin C to tackle hidden hunger and micronutrient gaps. Developed through conventional breeding and biotechnology, they keep their original taste and yield. In India, the International Potato Center and ICAR are driving their adoption, with a hub in Agra. Alongside golden rice, pearl millet, and zinc-rich wheat, they provide an affordable, lasting way to improve nutrition and strengthen food security.

For UPSC, biofortified potatoes are relevant under GS-III (Food Security, Biotechnology, Agriculture), Prelims on crop varieties, and Essay topics on nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and tackling hidden hunger in India.

For those aiming to conquer the coveted Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, understanding biofortified potatoes can indeed turn the scales in your favor.

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What are Biofortified Potatoes?

Biofortified potatoes are highly bred potatoes that contain more iron, as a means of fighting against iron deficiency and hidden hunger. They are manufactured with traditional breeding and biotechnology and have the same flavor and yield characteristics as ordinary potatoes. This is being headed by the International Potato Center (CIP) a leading powerhouse in tuber crop research and it is presently promoting mineral rich potatoes in India.

Biofortified Sweet Potatoes

Vitamin A-enriched biofortified sweet potatoes are already cultivated in Karnataka, Assam, West Bengal, and Odisha, with plans to expand their reach to more farmers across India. At present, the primary focus is on iron-rich potato varieties. Germplasm has been shared by CIP with the ICAR–Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla. A variety released in Peru is being adapted for Indian agro-climatic conditions.

CIP–South Asia Regional Centre in Agra

CIP is establishing its South Asia Regional Centre in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, located in the Indo-Gangetic plains—the world’s largest potato-producing region. This centre will enhance regional research & development, seed production, and farmer access to biofortified varieties.

ICAR’s Role in Biofortification

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has released biofortified seed varieties across 61 crops, which include:

• 34 field crops – cereals, pulses, millets, and oilseeds
• 27 horticultural crops – tubers, vegetables, and medicinal plants

Examples of Biofortified Crops

• CR Dhan 416 – A salinity-resistant rice variety with multiple pest resistances.
• Durum Wheat – Rich in zinc (41.1 ppm), iron (38.5 ppm), and protein (12%), adapted to irrigated areas.

What is Biofortification?

Biofortification is the enrichment of crops, especially staple crops with vitamins and minerals through conventional breeding techniques, agronomic disease and pest management, or with modern biotechnology. It is a cost-effective and long term solution to increase nutrition without compromising the natural qualities of the food.

Key Aspects of Biofortification

Nutrient Enhancement

Focuses on raising levels of iron, zinc, vitamin A, and other micronutrients in staple crops.

Methods

• Conventional Plant Breeding – selecting and crossbreeding nutrient-rich varieties.
• Agronomic Practices – improving soil nutrition and plant uptake.
• Modern Biotechnology – using advanced tools for faster and targeted nutrient enhancement.

Reaching Target Populations

Improves nutrition through regular food consumption, benefiting vulnerable groups like women and children who depend heavily on staple foods.

Examples of Biofortified Crops

• Iron-rich rice
• Zinc-rich wheat
• Vitamin A-rich sweet potatoes

What are the Difference from Fortification

Why Biofortification is Sustainable

• Uses familiar crops already part of local diets.
• Reaches remote populations without extra infrastructure.
• Offers a long-term, cost-effective solution to malnutrition.

In Essence

Biofortification strengthens food systems by making staple crops more nutritious from the inside out, delivering essential vitamins and minerals directly through the daily diet. It supports nutrition security, public health, and agricultural resilience, aligning with both national nutrition goals and global sustainable development objectives.

Conclusion

CIP with ICAR have developed bio fortified potatoes as a sustainable, low cost solution to address the issue of iron deficiency and hidden hunger in India. These crops should have a striking impact on the nutritional security with the upcoming South Asia Regional Centre in Agra and adaptation of high-iron varieties to the local environment. They, along with other biofortified crops, align with national programs such as Poshan Abhiyaan and internationally recognized SDGs which make them critical to the human health and food system resilience.