New Iceberg Lettuce Varieties Set to Transform Fresh and Processing Markets

Syngenta is introducing two breakthrough iceberg lettuce varieties designed to address key challenges facing growers in both fresh and processing markets. LICN21-1340 and LICN23-2537 will be commercially available in 2026, offering enhanced disease resistance, improved harvest flexibility, and superior marketability.

LICN21-1340: Versatility Meets Performance

LICN21-1340 is an all-season variety engineered for growers seeking reliability across diverse market applications. Its vigorous frame provides exceptional versatility, making it suitable for both fresh market and processing operations.

Key advantages include:

Extended harvest window through slow filling characteristics and improved bolting tolerance, giving growers greater flexibility in timing
Premium marketability with low tipburn incidence and excellent uniformity, meeting the highest quality standards
Reduced crop risk backed by a comprehensive disease resistance package
Operational efficiency through predictable, uniform maturity that streamlines harvest planning

The variety carries high resistance (HR) to Downy Mildew races Bl: 29-41EU, Lettuce Aphid Nr: 0, Tomato Bushy Stunt Virus (TBSV), and Fusarium races Fol:4 and Fol:2.

LICN23-2537: Maximising Pack-Out Potential

LICN23-2537 addresses critical profitability factors with its improved core structure and enhanced filling characteristics, designed to maximise usable product and minimise waste.

Growers can expect:

Extended harvest flexibility for optimal timing
Higher pack-out rates thanks to a short core that maximises usable product per head
Reduced field losses from excellent bottom quality that maintains integrity throughout the harvest window
Improved labour efficiency through easy, fast harvesting characteristics
Lower crop risk with robust disease resistance

This variety features high resistance (HR) to Downy Mildew races Bl: 29-41EU, Lettuce Aphid Nr: 0, Tomato Bushy Stunt Virus (TBSV), and Fusarium race Fol:4.

Both varieties represent significant advances in iceberg lettuce breeding, combining agronomic performance with practical benefits that address real-world production challenges.