MSU to Conduct Study to Improve Potato Production in Bangladesh and Indonesia

Scientists at Michigan State University will be conducting studies to enhance potato production in Bangladesh and Indonesia. The project is part of USAID's work on Feed the Future, the U.S. government's global hunger and food security initiative. USAID awarded MSU with US$5.8 million to conduct the project.

"Genetically engineered crops are among the technologies with potential to increase agricultural productivity, benefiting livelihoods of both small-scale and commercial farmers, while reducing inputs and environmental impacts," said Dave Douches, head of MSU's Potato Breeding and Genetics program. "Internationally, potatoes are the world's third-largest food crop. So our team is committed to developing new varieties, finding potatoes that result in reduced pesticide use and more sustainable growing methods, and exploring ways to enhance the nutritional value of the potato," he added.

MSU scientists will work with the University of Minnesota and J.R. Simplot Company, together with institutions based in Bangladesh and Indonesia. The researchers aim to develop varieties that will help farmers fight diseases such as late blight, and produce high yields.

For more details, visit the MSU website.