• Lettuce was a symbol of fertility in Ancient Egypt.
  • Augustus Caesar was said to have built a statue for lettuce, as he claimed that this leaf vegetable helped him overcome a serious illness.
  • Lettuce is botanically closely related with Chrysanthemum, Zinnia, Sunflower and Dahlia (Asteraceae family).
  • In America, lettuce was first introduced by the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus.
  • Lettuce production became popular all around the world. Nowadays, China produces more than 50% of world lettuce production
  • There are several types/varieties of lettuce in the market, but the most widely-known are four: Romaine, Butterhead, Iceberg and Green Leaf.
  • The presence of some fruits in the fridge may harm the lettuce. Some fruits, such as apples and bananas, produce ethylene. This gas may promote lettuce ripening.
  • Romaine lettuce is a valuable source of sleep potentiating material.
  • Lettuce contains substances (Zeaxanthin) that promote Eye health.
  • Lettuce contains some carotenoids with potential anti-diabetic action.

10 Interesting Facts about Lettuce You Probably Ignored

Lettuce is a widely known leaf vegetable that has been spread all over the world, during the 20th century. People can grow lettuce for its leaves or stem. Some varieties are mainly produced in Europe, such as Romaine (Mediterranean countries). China produces more than 50% of world lettuce production, while the two largest lettuce exporters are Spain and the USA.

Top 5 lettuce producing countries are:

  1. China
  2. USA
  3. India
  4. Spain 
  5. Italy

Lettuce is a nutrient-dense and low-calorie food with high water content (about 95 %). People usually consume lettuce fresh, either in salads or in other foods, such as sandwiches. It can provide the human body with protein, minerals, iron and plenty of vitamins (vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin A, etc.).

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