Mineral composition is associated with starch functionality in sweet potato: insights from the biofortified cultivar BRS Nuti

Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes enriched in β-carotene often exhibit lower dry matter content (DMC) than white-fleshed cultivars, potentially affecting starch-related properties. Three sweet potato cultivars with contrasting pulp colors were examined: BRS Cuia, Beauregard, and BRS Nuti. Mineral composition, DMC, and β-carotene content were assessed in the roots, while physicochemical, pasting, thermal, and digestibility properties were evaluated in isolated native starches. BRS Cuia exhibited the highest DMC (36.39%) and peak viscosity (553.96 RVU), whereas Beauregard showed the lowest estimated glycemic index (73.68). BRS Nuti presented the highest β-carotene content (188.30 μg g −1 ), amylose content (29.53%), resistant starch fraction (34.57%), and overall mineral accumulation, while maintaining intermediate DMC (26.79%). Correlation analysis indicated that mineral composition was associated with several starch-related traits, with phosphorus showing the most consistent relationships with amylose content and pasting behavior. Carotenoid-rich cultivars also exhibited patterns associated with higher amylose content and distinct mineral accumulation. Overall, these findings provide insights into the relationships among mineral composition, carotenoid accumulation, and starch functionality in sweet potato, supporting future studies and breeding strategies aimed at improving both nutritional and technological quality.