Glycoalkaloid content of B5141-6 potatoes

A cross-Canada survey of B5141-6³ potatoes grown at 12 locations showed a distinct bitter off-flavour found to be due to the presence of unusually high total glycoalkaloid content (TGA), mostly in excess of 20 mg per 100 gm of fresh weight. Samples of check varieties commonly grown in the selected locations, Kennebec, Irish Cobbler and Netted Gem, showed comparably low, normal TGA levels. As there is strong evidence that the high TGA levels in B5141-6 tubers are reached before detachment from the mother plant, it is assumed that the ability of B5141-6 to produce or accumulate such high levels is strongly inherited. To date, high TGA levels were found to be only due to the effects of post-harvest environment (6, 7). The implications of the TGA potential are discussed in relation to the existing potato improvement programmes and the need for a routine screening test for new introductions.