INTRODUCTION
Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a creeping, perennial plant from the Convolvulaceae family. It is native to Central America or northwest South America. The species is now present in tropical and subtropical regions where it is cultivated for its edible tubers of varied colors and shapes. In Benin, sweet potatoes are widely cultivated throughout the national territory during all periods of the year. This species is known as a food-secure crop and an important source of provitamin A for malnourished children.