Pigmented Potatoes: A Potential Panacea for Food and Nutrition Security and Health?

Foods 2022, 11(2), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11020175

Received: 8 November 2021 / Revised: 25 December 2021 / Accepted: 27 December 2021 / Published: 10 January 2022

Abstract

Although there are over 4000 potato cultivars in the world, only a few have been commercialized due to their marketability and shelf-life. Most noncommercialized cultivars are pigmented and found in remote regions of the world. White-fleshed potatoes are well known for their energy-enhancing complex carbohydrates; however, pigmented cultivars are potentially high in health-promoting polyphenolic compounds. Therefore, we reveal the comprehensive compositions of pigmented cultivars and associated potential health benefits, including their potential role in ameliorating hunger, food, and nutrition insecurity, and their prospects. The underutilization of such resources is a direct threat to plant-biodiversity and local traditions and cultures.

Keywords: anthocyanins; carotenoids; food and nutrition security; pigmented potatoes; polyphenols; sustainability