Minerals in Potato

Abstract

In the last few decades, the research is focused on sustainable development towards food security. Present research scenario is emphasized on nutritional security in the developing countries. In terms of consumption, potato is the fourth in number after rice, wheat and maize. It is considered a complete food and used as a staple food in various European countries. Potato is rich in carbohydrate, quality protein, antioxidant and micronutrients. It is also a rich source for minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, iodine, iron and zinc. There is wide variation in the minerals content of germplasm available for potato which provides ample scope for plant breeder and genetic engineers to explore the mechanism of mineral uptake in potato and enhance the bioavailability of minerals. So, biofortification of potato for mineral content through various approaches, viz., agronomic approach, conventional breeding and biotechnology is the best way to deal with the problem of malnutrition.