Evaluation of polyphenol content and other properties of 16 cultivars/strains of Yacon

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the polyphenol content and other properties of a number of cultivars/strains of yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius), and select nutritionally superior cultivars/strains that would contribute to improve human health. The tuberous roots and tubers of 3 cultivars and 13 strains of yacon were examined. Among the 3 cultivars, 'Saradaotome' and 'Saradaokame' showed superior polyphenol content in the tuberous roots. Among the 16 cultivars/strains, 'Peru-1, 'Peru-3' and 'Peru-4' showed superior polyphenol content, especially in the tuber, and 'CIP205029' showed the highest saccharide level. A positive correlation was observed between polyphenol contents in the tuberous root and tuber of the same yacon cultivar/strain.