Iceberg Lettuce

Tues, Aug 25th, 2026

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

As we approach the end of the Salinas Valley growing season, we want to provide an update on Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) and the potential impact of seasonal disease pressure on Iceberg lettuce.

INSV has been an ongoing challenge in the Salinas Valley and is primarily spread by thrips. In lettuce, symptoms can include brown, tan, or dark necrotic spots, yellowing or discoloration, burned-looking leaf tissue, stunted growth, and progressive plant deterioration.

As the season progresses, disease pressure can increase and vary significantly from field to field and growing area to growing area. This can create additional challenges with yields and available raw product as we move toward the end of the Salinas Valley season.

Increased INSV pressure does not mean all Iceberg lettuce will be affected or that every shipment will experience quality issues. It is a seasonal production risk that quality teams are closely monitoring. Suppliers will continue working with growers and field personnel to evaluate crop conditions, monitor incoming raw product, and manage quality throughout harvest and processing.

Look for Iceberg supplies to be on the tighter side for the next few weeks.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce