In a major effort to combat hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies, scientists at the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI) have developed Kufri Jamunia, a biofortified purple-fleshed potato variety designed to enhance dietary quality nationwide.
Unlike industrial food fortification, biofortification integrates essential vitamins and minerals directly into the crop through breeding.
Released in 2024, Kufri Jamunia stands out for its high content of natural pigments, including anthocyanins and carotenoids, which give both its skin and flesh a deep purple hue while supplying potent antioxidants.
The variety boasts remarkable nutritional value, delivering 42.75 mg of Vitamin C, 2.28 mg of zinc, and 3.22 mg of iron per 100 grams—significantly outperforming conventional yellow-skinned potatoes.
Beyond its health benefits, Kufri Jamunia exhibits strong agronomic performance, yielding 32–35 tonnes per hectare with a medium dormancy period of 6–8 weeks and excellent storage quality.
Recommended for cultivation across the North Indian plains—including states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh—the versatile tuber is well-suited for traditional cooking, breakfast items, and processed foods like potato flour and halwa. Kufri Jamunia represents a sustainable, cost-effective step toward long-term nutritional security.
