Researcher develops more nutritious potatoes

Dr. Haynes, a researcher at NMSU has bred a more nutritious potato. This breed of potato, like the papa criolla types grown in South America, also show promise for growth in New Mexico, where field trials have been planned. Typical potatoes grown in the United states are a poor source of carotenoids which this new breed is high in. They are also high in lutein and zeaxanthin which have been shown to provide multiple health benefits.

Using conventional breeding, Haynes has made the papa criollas more commercially viable in the region. Starting with plants the size of peas she has progressed into potatoes about the size of golf balls. Field trials are planned in areas with large Hispanic populations where Haynes believes they show promise, stating, "The Hispanic population is increasing in the United States and they are very familiar with this potato from their homeland.”

If correct it could increase the market for such potatoes in these regions while offering more nutritious alternatives to the potatoes currently available.

source: potatopro.com

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