Cassava roots are the starchy root vegetables produced by cassava plants. The cassava plants are also known as manioc, casava or yuca. These plants are mostly grown in South America, where they are widely cultivated for its edible, starchy, tuber like root called cassava roots.

Let me share with you, some facts about cassava roots-

About Cassava roots

• Produced in bunches, these cassava roots have a brown bark like outer shell with white or yellowish flesh.
• These cassava roots grow up to a length of 15 inches or more.
• The taste of cassava roots differs from sweet to bland to sometimes bitter, depending upon the variety of the cassava plant.
• Cassava roots can be stewed, dried or boiled for consumption.
• These roots contain cyanogenic glucoside, which can produce poisonous hydrogen cyanide. However, it is safe to cook and eat cassava roots. Therefore, never consume a raw cassava root.
• It is advisable to buy roots which are fresh and healthy with no bruises and spots.
• No refrigeration is required to store these cassava roots.
• By keeping these roots in a cool dry place, keeps them fresh for many weeks.

 Nutrition

• Cassava roots are a rich source of carbohydrates.
• These roots are also a good source of dietary fiber and help in getting rid of constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticular disorders.
• Magnesium present in cassava roots aids in energy production and building defense system of the body.
• Also, a good source of Vitamin C, a natural water soluble antioxidant, cassava roots help building the immunity and enhancing skin elasticity.
• The B- vitamins aid in metabolism.
• The leaves of cassava have high proteins, but the cassava roots do not have any protein content.

Some uses of Cassava roots

• Tapioca pearls, used for making tapioca tea and tapioca pudding, are made from cassava roots.
• Cassava roots are used as bio fuel and fodder of animals.
• These roots are used as ingredient in many alcoholic beverages.
• The roots can be used as vegetables in recipes, ingredients for pancakes, sliced and made into snack wafers.

Production of Cassava roots

•  The largest producer of cassava is Brazil, followed by Thailand, Nigeria, Zaire and Indonesia.
• The production of cassava in Africa and Asia is on increase.
• The prime exporter of cassava is Thailand.

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