Landec, Monsanto team on broccoli, cauliflower

Landec Corp.'s Apio unit and Monsanto Co.'s Seminis Vegetable Seeds subsidiary said Tuesday they are partnering to develop new broccoli and cauliflower varieties.

Apio and Seminis will work together to identify and develop varieties for the North American market for use in Apio's packaged bags and trays for retail grocery chains, club stores and the foodservice industry.

Seminis will focus on breeding improved broccoli and cauliflower traits, and Apio will be responsible for sourcing, manufacturing, packaging and marketing the vegetables. All of their products that reach the market will be packaged with Apio's Intelimer BreatheWay packaging.

Apio said it expects field trials for initial target varieties to begin this fall.

Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.