Royal HZPC Group receives patent for unique antioxidant-rich potato innovation
Royal HZPC Group has received a patent for a new generation of potatoes with a significantly increased level of flavonoids, natural antioxidants known for their potential health benefits. The innovation combines the benefits of coloured potatoes with the appearance of a traditional potato.
The development is the result of research carried out by the Breeding, Molecular Biology and Quality teams at Royal HZPC Group, with support from Wageningen University & Research.
A new consumer trait
Flavonoids belong to the group of polyphenols and are associated with various potential health benefits. These compounds occur naturally in red and purple potatoes, yet consumers often prefer potatoes with white or yellow flesh.
That is why HZPC developed a potato with an increased concentration of the flavonoid kaempferol, while maintaining the familiar appearance of a traditional potato.
“A patent is only granted when an innovation is genuinely novel and distinctive. That makes this patent particularly meaningful. We have developed a trait that combines the potential health benefits of coloured potatoes with a potato that looks more familiar to consumers,” said Stan Oome, Program Leader Molecular Biology.
A patent is only granted when an innovation is genuinely novel and distinctive. That makes this patent particularly meaningful.
From curiosity to innovation
The foundation for this discovery originated from a research question within the Royal HZPC Group breeding programme. By combining different genetic traits, researchers found it possible to develop potatoes with both a high flavonoid content and a traditional flesh colour.
According to Stan, the innovation demonstrates that there is still significant scope for consumer-focused innovation within a crop like potato.
“Many innovations in our sector focus on yield, disease resistance or agronomic traits. This development is different because it focuses on a characteristic that may be directly relevant to consumers.”
This development is different because it focuses on a characteristic that can be directly relevant to consumers.
More than a patent
While the granting of the patent marks an important milestone, Royal HZPC Group sees it primarily as the beginning of the next phase. The company is now exploring which applications and markets are best suited to this innovation.
Potential applications include both table potatoes and processed potato products. In addition, further research is underway to optimise the trait and integrate it into future potato varieties.
Innovation as a driving force
The patent highlights the innovative strength of Royal HZPC Group and demonstrates how fundamental research, plant breeding and curiosity can lead to new opportunities for the potato sector.
Stan concludes: “It confirms that there is still plenty of room for new ideas and new applications within potatoes.”