In trials, the project has doubled the iron content of some potato strains.
The project will continue by attempting to cross breed these potatoes with high iron with CIP's lines of potatoes that have disease and pest resistance and produce high yields.
January 2011: In order to combat iron deficiency found in many rural communities, the International Potato Center (CIP) has engaged in biofortification efforts to develop potato strains that are rich in iron and ascorbic acid, which contributes to individuals’ ability to absorb iron.
CIP has been working on these efforts for the past five years with funding from the HarvestPlus program. The project initially screens potato germplasm for micronutrients and scientists then select potatoes for their high level of iron content. In trials, they have since doubled the iron content of some potato strains. The project will continue by attempting to cross breed these potatoes with high iron with CIP’s lines of potatoes that have disease and pest resistance and produce high yields. CIP is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). [Press Release]