Antioxidant activity of yellow sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) after dehydration

Abstract

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) is a plant with great importance in food security, especially in developing countries. Grown in more than 100 countries, it is nutritious and contains high levels of dietary fiber, minerals such as iron and vitamins A, B and C. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of two cultivars of yellow sweet potatoes Beauregard (biofortified) and Carrot (organic). The ORAC, ABTS and DPPH assays were used to determine the antioxidant activity of raw, bleached and dried sweet potatoes at 40, 50 and 60o C. The results showed that ORAC assay revealed the highest values for antioxidant activity in all conditions of Beauregard and cv. Carrot were tested. Both cultvars can be be use to elaborate functional products as supplements among others. contributing to the consumption of pro-vitamin A rich foods.