Identification of high anthocyanin and resistant starch potato genotypes for health promoting properties

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Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is an important staple crop in Canada and worldwide as potato is ranked worldwide fifth on the basis of human consumption and fourth in production. Potato consumption is declining, partly due to the perception that it contributes to diabetes, obesity and overweight due to its high readily digestible starch content. Potatoes, however, are important nutritionally since they contain significant levels of polyphenols, vitamin C and minerals that provide important health benefits. It is now known that there are significant variations in phytonutrient characteristics among potato cultivars. In that regard, in collaboration with the Little Potatoes Co., our NSERC Engage grant supported a survey of 27 genotypes (advanced selections and cultivars) supplied by Little Potatoes Co. We showed up to 4-5 fold higher antioxidant capacity measures and total phenolic content in one specific genotype. Our McGill team, in conjunction Little Potatoes Co., would now like to identify genotypes with increased resistant starch, total dietary fibre and polyphenols, which can act synergistically to improve glycemic response of potatoes. Identification of nutritionally superior potatoes can be a novel means to improve the resistant starch, fibre and polyphenolic content of Canadian diets and so may decrease risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease and colon cancer. The research is strategic towards goals of improving Canada's capacity to market superior quality foods and deliver foods with specific health benefits to Canadians.