Intrexon Corp., Davis, Calif., advanced its GreenVenus Romaine lettuce to commercial trials. Initial data under commercial indoor production conditions indicate that GreenVenus improved shelf life up to 2 weeks, with a potential for higher marketable yield with no tip burn. In addition, GreenVenus non-browning lettuce was assessed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), who determined not to be subject to regulation under 7CFR Part 340 for plants altered or produced through genetic engineering.  

“We are focused on developing new approaches in precision genetics to enable more sustainable food production as well as reduce food loss and waste,” says Sekhar Boddupalli, president of Intrexon’s ag biotech division. “We are pleased to rapidly advance our GreenVenus lettuce with improved marketable yield and shelf life from concept to commercial trials within 2 years. The USDA’s transparent, risk-based decision helps clarify the path to market for our GreenVenus (non-transgenic) lettuce, and greatly facilitates our efforts to expand our precision genetics platform to other vegetables.” 

“We look forward to continuing our work with our collaborators and value chain partners, as we advance this exciting product toward commercialization,” adds Thomas Bostick, president and COO, Intrexon Bioengineering.