ARS | Publication request: Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A

Submitted to: Symposium Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: August 11, 2011
Publication Date: October 31, 2011
Citation: Burri, B.J., Turner, T. 2011. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A. Symposium Proceedings. 37:3.

Interpretive Summary: Vitamin A is an essential vitamin. It is required for growth, vision, and immune function. Vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem in many countries. Over 200 million women and children suffer from vitamin A deficiency worldwide. Several carotenoids, including beta-carotene, can be converted to vitamin A in the body. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes contain high concentrations of beta-carotene. We estimated the amounts of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes needed to provide sufficient vitamin A for one individual, and for all the populations most at risk for vitamin A deficiency in the world. The amounts that need to be eaten are reasonable, at less than 1 cup per day. Orange-fleshed sweet potato is an excellent source of vitamin A.

Technical Abstract: Vitamin A is an essential vitamin required for growth, vision, and immune function. Vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem in numerous countries. 208 million women and children suffer from vitamin A deficiency worldwide. Several carotenoids, including beta-carotene, can be converted to vitamin A in the body. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes contain high concentrations of beta-carotene. We estimated the amounts of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes needed to provide sufficient vitamin A for one individual, and for all the populations most at risk for vitamin A deficiency in the world. The amounts required can reasonably be provided, evidence that the orange sweet potato is an excellent source of vitamin A.