On our plates, the potato has reigned for generations. Present each week for 62 % of French people according to France Agrimer, it is available in puree, fries, gratins or roasted. But in recent years, an orange competitor has attracted light: sweet potato. More colorful, sometimes deemed healthier, it intrigues consumers. So which one to favor? Nutritionists and experts share their analyzes to help choose better.
The potato, a sure value of French cuisine
Introduced in France in the 19th century by Antoine Parmentier, the potatoes quickly established itself as a must. Today, there are more than twenty varieties classified according to their culinary use. As the Ministry of Agriculture recalls: “The potatoes with firm flesh, with melting flesh, with a floury flesh and the original in beautiful colors“.
Beyond its versatility, this stuels also has an interesting nutritional profile: around 85 kcal per 100 g, 3 % protein, 7 % fiber, 10 % minerals and a high water content (80 %). These qualities make it a full and accessible food.
Sweet potato, a colorful profile rich in nutrients
Faced with it, the sweet potato has imposed itself as a more exotic alternative. According to Bonnie Johnson, a dietitian approved at Potatoes USA: “In reality, soft potatoes and ordinary potatoes are remarkably similar on the nutrition. The only nutrient that sweet potatoes have, in number, is vitamin A“. This richness in beta-carotene also explains its orange color.
For Alexandra Murcier, dietitian-nutritionist, the differences exist but they remain nuanced: “Sweet potatoes are slightly more calorie than potatoes but the difference is low. They are also a little richer in carbohydrates, but also richer in fiber. Their glycemic index is however much lower than that of potatoes, they are therefore to be prioritized if there is attention to its weight or blood sugar“.
Sweet potato or potato, who really wins?
When we compare the two, some key points stand out:
- The potato is richer in potassium, interesting for blood pressure;
- The sweet potato is distinguished by its vitamin A and vitamin C intake, both antioxidants;
- The lower glycemic index of the sweet potato makes it an ally for controlling weight and blood sugar.
As Alexandra Murcier sums it up: “Sweet potatoes are also much richer in nutrients, including vitamin A and vitamin C which are antioxidants. The potatoes are however richer in potassium, interesting to control blood pressure. Despite everything, given its many virtues, my preference goes to sweet potatoes“.