In an effort to raise its profile and stress its importance as a food staple, the United Nations has named 2008 the International Year of the Potato. While grain prices hit record highs earlier this year, potato prices remained relatively stable. Its modest cost and high nutritional value have led food analysts to hail the humble tuber as key to global poverty eradication.

Pamela Anderson is the Director General of the International Potato Center (CIP) in Peru. Jerome spoke with her about the potato’s potential role in the global food supply chain.