Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has developed its first black carrot variety — Punjab Black Beauty, which can work as blood cleanser to cure anaemia and stomach disorders.
“The black carrot is an excellent blood cleanser which cures anemia deficiency, constipation and stomach disorders, and has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties,” a PAU vegetable scientist said. “With large section of India’s population deficient in micro-nutrients, black carrot is the best alternative to tackle the malnutrition problems of the country because it contains beneficial anti-oxidants and nutrients,” the scientist added.
Highlighting the salient features of the tropical variety, TS Dhillon, an expert of vegetable science, said its roots attain edible maturity after 93 days of sowing and its leaves are dark green. Dhillon added that its average root yield is 196 quintal per acre and fetches premium price in the market due to its attractive purple-black roots.
The carrot variety has high nutraceutical values and is rich in anthocyanins, phenols, flavonols-carotene, calcium, iron, and zinc. Besides, its anti-oxidant activity is four times higher than red carrot, he said.