Root crops are edible underground parts of plants that are typically used as vegetables or sources of starch, fiber, and nutrients. They grow beneath the soil and store energy in their roots, which is why they are rich in carbohydrates. They are natural free radicals.
🌱 Common Examples of Root Crops:
- Sweet Potato (Kamote)
- Cassava (Kamoteng Kahoy)
- Carrot
- Potato
- Taro (Gabi)
- Beetroot
- Radish (Labanos)
- Turnip (Singkamas)
- Yam (Ube)
- Ginger (technically a rhizome, but often grouped with root crops)
✅ Characteristics of Root Crops:
- Grow underground and absorb water/nutrients from the soil.
- Are rich in carbohydrates, especially starch.
- Provide dietary fiber, vitamins (like vitamin A in carrots), and minerals (like potassium).
- Can be boiled, roasted, fried, mashed, or used in soups and desserts.
🍽️ Importance in Diet and Agriculture:
- Serve as staple foods in many cultures.
- Easy to store and transport.
- Drought-tolerant varieties can thrive in different climates.
- Great for food security and income in rural areas.