DOWNERS GROVE, IL - A strategic investment in global seed health has officially come to fruition, as Syngenta recently debuted a $15 million new Global Vegetable Seeds Quality Control Lab in Nampa, Idaho. As the seed supplier welcomed 100 guests to tour the new facility, I had a chance to explore its impacts on the company’s current production and future growth.

“Seed quality is paramount every season. We’re working hand-in-hand with our customers to ensure their concerns are addressed before the season starts,” says Matthew Johnston, Global Head of Vegetable Seeds and Flowers at Syngenta. “The Nampa, Idaho, facility gives us the opportunity to screen more varieties faster, allowing us to bring growers the highest quality vegetable seed available. The new lab incorporates advanced testing techniques to boost accuracy in detection and decrease the time needed to bring seeds to growers’ doorsteps. This dedication to production and supply quality control means the seed is protected from the field to the bag. We believe this will make a difference for our growers, processors, and, ultimately, consumers.”

The new 37,000-square-foot facility stands on a 40-acre site. After a 15-month construction period, operations officially started on February 1, 2022. Syngenta’s cutting-edge new facility features state-of-the-art contained environment growth areas with high-precision control with LED lighting as well temperature and humidity controls to ensure accurate test results for its customers.

The company also optimizes protein and molecular testing capabilities, including PCR testing to test for seed-borne plant pathogens before they ever reach growers’ fields. These technologies allow the provider to detect pathogens faster and with greater accuracy to take corrective measures and ensure the highest-quality commercial seed is provided to its customers.

“By increasing our capabilities for high-quality seed production at this facility, we’re better equipped to serve growers around the world,” explains Johnston. “Our investment in better technologies to track and identify pests means growers can rest assured the products they receive from Syngenta will be clean of pests and provide stellar performance.”

With growth remaining top of mind for this seed provider, ANUK will surely be on the lookout for what’s next to come from Syngenta.

Syngenta