Sweet Potato Awareness Month Celebrated at UAPB with Nutrition, Education and Culinary Innovation

November is Sweet Potato Awareness Month. It coincides with the heart of harvest season and Thanksgiving, a food-centered holiday, Dr. W. Jinnings Burruss Jr., assistant professor of food service at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), said. During this time, sweet potatoes are at peak availability and are commonly featured in seasonal recipes, Dr. Burruss said. This alignment with traditional gatherings provides a natural opportunity to spotlight sweet potatoes not only as a festive staple but as a nutritionally rich and culturally significant crop.W. Jinnings Burruss Jr:”Designating this month for awareness allows organizations, schools, chefs and agricultural communities to reintroduce sweet potatoes to the public in new, innovative and health-conscious ways. It also serves as a timely reminder of the crop’s economic importance in regions like Arkansas, where sweet potato farming continues to be a vital part of local agriculture and food heritage. By linking education, culinary creativity and seasonal cooking, November becomes a month of both celebration and learning.”Sweet potatoes are often referred to as a “superfood.” They are naturally rich in nutrients while remaining low in calories and fat, Dr. Burruss said. A single medium-sized baked sweet potato contains approximately 100 calories, 4 grams of fiber and more than 400% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health and vision. They also provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, manganese, potassium and vitamin B.W. Jinnings Burruss Jr:”One of the most remarkable features of sweet potatoes is their complex carbohydrate structure, which provides long-lasting energy without causing sharp spikes in blood sugar. This makes them especially suitable for individuals managing diabetes or seeking to stabilize their energy throughout the day. Whether boiled, roasted, mashed or incorporated into baked goods, sweet potatoes deliver both flavor and function on every plate.”Sweet potatoes offer numerous health benefits that extend beyond basic nutrition. Their high levels of beta-carotene not only promote eye health but may also play a role in reducing the risk of certain cancers and boosting immune resilience, Dr. Burruss said. The presence of dietary fiber supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Because they are naturally low in fat and sodium, sweet potatoes are also heart-healthy and contribute to better cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a balanced diet.W. Jinnings Burruss Jr:”The antioxidants found in both orange and purple-fleshed sweet potatoes help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two major contributors to chronic disease. Additionally, their low glycemic index makes them a smart choice for those watching their blood sugar, especially when prepared without added sugars or syrups.””As a versatile, whole food, sweet potatoes support holistic wellness Read More