Botani Chips: Healthy Snacks from Katineung Potatoes Breeding PKHT IPB University
IPB University, through the Center for Tropical Horticulture Studies (PKHT) IPB University, has once again demonstrated its role in commercializing research results by launching Botani Chips, potato chips produced from superior potato varieties.
The product was developed by two IPB University innovators, Prof Agus Purwito and Prof Awang Maharijaya. It has begun commercialization and received positive feedback from various sectors.
“Botani Chips not only offer a crispy, savory taste but also represent the success of innovation based on agricultural research,” said Prof Agus at the Launching of Outstanding Research Results event at IPB University’s Dramaga Campus (7/22).
The product is popular among students, children, and various groups. Besides its unique taste and absence of MSG, Botani Chips also symbolize the upgrading of local horticultural products.
Uniquely, the Professor of the Faculty of Agriculture explained that the potatoes used come from a variety bred by PKHT IPB University, namely Katineung potatoes.
“Katineung potatoes have the advantage of above-average productivity, reaching 19,28–37,33 tons/ha,” he said.
In addition, the skin color of Katineung potatoes is different from other potatoes, which is purplish red. Another advantage, continued Prof Agus, is that “We have selected potatoes that are quite resistant to major potato diseases, so that pesticide costs can be reduced.”
“According to research, the Katineung potato variety has been proven to be high-yielding, disease-resistant, and suitable for industrial needs. These potatoes are expected to thrive in the community and meet industry expectations,” he said.
On the other hand, Chairman of PKHT IPB University, Prof Awang said that Botani Chips is a form of downstreaming of IPB University’s research results. According to him, this product is proof that agricultural innovation does not only stop at the laboratory, but can also be present in the market and enjoyed by the wider community.
The production process has undergone quality tests in accordance with food standards to produce healthy, high-quality, and competitive products, making Botani Chips competitive in the market.
“The launch of Botani Chips is a concrete step in bridging research and market needs. It is also proof that local horticultural products can move up the ladder and compete commercially,” he said.
Currently, Botani Chips are available in a sea salt flavor with a 14 gram packaging. Botani Chips are currently being marketed within the IPB University campus and are planned to be displayed in retail stores on the IPB University campus in the near future, with the possibility of expanding to national-scale marketing.
Through this product, PKHT IPB University continues to promote the sustainable commercialization of plant breeding results. It is hoped that Botani Chips can become a successful example of collaboration between scientific innovation and agriculture-based entrepreneurship. (dr) (IAAS/LAN)
