CIP-Kallpa Yawri (meaning “Iron Strength” in Quechua) is a biofortified potato variety developed through conventional breeding by the International Potato Center (CIP) in Peru. It was bred specifically to address iron deficiency and help reduce anemia, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and women of reproductive age.
Key Characteristics
- Nutritional Traits
- High iron content compared to conventional potato varieties
- Iron shown to be bioavailable and well absorbed by the human body
- Contributes to improved dietary iron intake
- Agronomic Performance
- High yield potential (can exceed 20 tons per hectare under good management)
- Adapted to high-altitude Andean regions (approx. 2,600–4,200 meters above sea level)
- Good tolerance/resistance to late blight (a major potato disease)
- Stable performance across different agro-ecological zones
- Physical Characteristics
- Attractive tuber appearance
- Good dry matter content
- Suitable texture and taste for household cooking
- Acceptable for local markets
