Ravi Prakash Maurya, a farmer in Uttar Pradesh, is cultivating “black crops” such as rice, wheat, tomatoes, niger seeds, turmeric, and potatoes, all known for their color and antioxidant properties.

Debate Surrounds the Origins of Black Potatoes: Some Claim They Have Existed for 5-7 Years, While Others Consider Them a Rarity. This Variety Features a Black Outer Layer and Purple Insides, Rich in Nutrients and Antioxidants, and Is Currently Being Bred in Uttar Pradesh.

Ravi Prakash Maurya, a 40-year-old journalist-turned-farmer from Mansoorpur, Prayagraj, has earned the title of "black potato champion" for his unique agricultural efforts. After his father death, Maurya returned to his village in 2016 and began farming.

Over the past five years, he has focused on cultivating what he refers to as "black crops" — a variety of vegetables and grains that are all distinct for their black color. These include black rice, wheat, tomato, niger seeds, turmeric, ginger, and, of course, black potatoes. Maurya has been promoting these crops among farmers across 15 states in India, seeking to expand the cultivation and awareness of these unusual crops.

Black Potatoes: A Nutrient-Rich Source of Health-Promoting Antioxidants

Ravi Prakash Maurya, after sourcing black potatoes from a farmer in Rae Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, began growing them due to their high antioxidant content, which offers various health benefits.

Locally known as “Kaala Aaloo” (black potato), the true color of this vegetable is a deep purple, which becomes visible when cut in half, says Maurya.

The Unique Appearance of Black Potatoes

Black potatoes, grown by about fifty farmers in the Prayagraj region of Uttar Pradesh, are not yet recognized in the APMCs. Their unique blue-purple-black outer skin distinguishes them from other potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) and their vibrant purple flesh remains intact even when cooked. These potatoes are related to native South American tuber plants from the Andes Mountains.

"Black potatoes, cultivated worldwide, are known by various names including Vitelotte, Adirondack Blue, Shetland Black, Purple Peruvian, Purple Majesty, All Blue, and Congo. They have a nuttier flavor, denser texture, and a more earthy taste compared to typical white potatoes."

Yielding

A kilo of black potato tubers yields around 15 kg of produce, says Maurya. Grown with farm yard manure, he spends approximately Rs 6,000 on inputs and harvests nearly 90 quintals per bigha, slightly less than regular potatoes.

Two years ago, Atul Singh of Jhansi received a handful of black potatoes from Maurya to try. Since then, the 35-year-old agricultural product trader has been seeking them whenever they arrive in the market. He notes, “They are fairly small compared to regular potatoes. When sliced, they reveal a purple ring near the edge. I find them ideal for roasting, baking, or steaming, and I often make chips from them due to their sweet, buttery flavor and light, floury texture.”

In fruits and vegetables, the color purple often signifies the presence of anthocyanins, a type of phytonutrient. While your body does not require them to function, anthocyanins help protect cells from damage that can lead to illness and disease.

A Powerhouse of Antioxidants and Essential Nutrients

Black potatoes are nutritionally rich, offering antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation. They are high in fiber, supporting digestion and blood sugar regulation. These potatoes provide essential vitamins such as vitamin C and B6, as well as minerals like potassium, iron, and magnesium. With a low glycemic index, they are a good option for managing blood sugar levels. Additionally, they offer healthy carbohydrates and a modest amount of protein, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

Growing Demand and Awareness

Being a new variety, black potatoes are still being experimented with by most farmers. According to Maurya, farmers order 3-5 kg of seeds, keeping part of the harvest for themselves and selling the rest as tubers or seeds. This is why black potatoes are not commonly found in markets. However, after Abhishek Shrivastava, president of Agri Junction, posted a video about the potatoes in March 2020, he has received numerous requests. So far, they have supplied 3,000 kg of black potatoes to farmers in Bihar, Punjab, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana.

"“By early 2025, we will hopefully see black potatoes arriving in the market,” says Shrivastava.

Maurya has received numerous orders for black potato tubers and has supplied them to over 500 farmers across the country. He even experimented with making potato chips and papad from the vegetable, noting, “They may be dark in color but are very tasty.”

Ramgopal Chandel from Barsawan village has been growing black potatoes on one bigha of land for over a decade. After spending Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000 on inputs, he harvests about 80 quintals per bigha, slightly less than regular potatoes. However, he highlights that black potatoes have a longer shelf life, making them a valuable crop.

If you want to try growing or using black potatoes in your garden or kitchen, you can contact Ravi Prakash Maurya at 9026253336.

Edited by Gayathri