Evaluation of Biofortified Sweetpotato Varieties for Beta-Carotene Content and Agronomic Performance in Vitamin A-Deficient Communities of Zamfara State

Vitamin A deficiency remains a critical public health problem in North West Nigeria, particularly among children under five and women of reproductive age in rural Zamfara State. Orange-fleshed sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) varieties biofortified with high beta-carotene content offer a food-based strategy for addressing this nutritional gap. This study evaluates four biofortified orange-fleshed sweetpotato varieties (UMUSPO 1, UMUSPO 3, Mothers' Delight, and CIP-440076) against a local white-fleshed landrace for beta-carotene content, agronomic performance, and consumer acceptability in Zamfara State. Variety trials were established in three rural communities using a randomized complete block design with four replications. Storage root yield, vine yield, beta-carotene content (measured by HPLC), and dry matter content were recorded. Consumer acceptability was assessed using a sensory panel of 120 community members. Results indicate that UMUSPO 3 produced the highest storage root yield and beta-carotene content among the biofortified varieties, while Mothers' Delight received the highest consumer acceptability score due to its sweetness and texture. The study recommends UMUSPO 3 as the primary variety for nutritional intervention programs targeting vitamin A deficiency in Zamfara State communities. Keywords: biofortification, sweetpotato, beta-carotene, vitamin A, Zamfara State