Iceberg lettuce is Switzerland's favourite lettuce. On the list of the country's most consumed vegetables, it stands in third place, behind carrots and tomatoes. Over the past year, a total of 37,418 tonnes were sold by Swiss stores and every Swiss consumed an average of 4.65 kg.
Iceberg lettuce consumption keeps growing for years; not surprising, since it is a crisp variety with a slightly nutty taste. Moreover, it has a longer shelf life compared to other lettuce varieties. It remains fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, and even after being sliced retains its flavour for a few days.
Unlike butterhead lettuce, Iceberg lettuce has a compact, solid shape; the closely folded leaves form a closed head, causing the Iceberg to look like a cabbage. Iceberg lettuce is up to three times heavier than butterhead lettuce, but even though the two varieties differ greatly when it comes to appearance, in terms of vitamin and mineral content both varieties are equal.
Iceberg lettuce comes originally from the U.S. To ensure that the lettuce arrived fresh to the market, it was transported in boxes with ice. That's where the name came from.
