Syngenta Seeds has introduced NK Brand Extra Edge* corn hybrids and soybean varieties that have been characterized for specific end-use markets. Available for the 2005 growing season, Extra Edge corn hybrids have been characterized for both the wet-mill and dry-grind ethanol markets. Extra Edge soybean varieties now offer growers and processors a list of products both strong in agronomic performance and suitable for specialty processing.

"When growing crops for specific end-use markets, such as ethanol or oil production, seed selection takes on added importance," said Gary Powell, NK Brand new product and market development director for Syngenta Seeds. "Growers always need to look at agronomics first, and choose the hybrids that fit their farm best, then look at added benefits for specific end-use markets. After considerable research, we now have the ability to characterize our Extra Edge corn and soybean products. Currently, 36 hybrids and 16 soybeans from NK Brand carry Extra Edge designations. These products offer customers the advantage of strong, high-yielding genetics that meet specific end-use market needs."

Extra Edge corn hybrids include High Extractable Starch (HES) hybrids for the wet-milling markets, such as high fructose corn syrup and specialty starches, and Dry-Grind Ethanol (DGE) hybrids for ethanol production. Specific to ethanol production, Extra Edge DGE hybrids have been tested and characterized using the methodology established by the University of Illinois. The method is considered by many to be the most accurate on the market as it measures actual ethanol creation in a dry-grind ethanol process, rather than an indirect measurement based on weight loss due to CO2 generation.

This testing methodology is already finding its way into commercial uses. NK Brand Seeds has implemented the measurement technique to characterize its NK Brand Extra Edge corn hybrids for ethanol production at the company's Stanton, Minnesota facility. This new ethanol laboratory was designed to apply proven third-party research to continue to add value to emerging agricultural markets.

The Extra Edge soybean portfolio was developed to offer High Oil (HO) and High Protein (HP) content. The characterized varieties allow growers to deliver higher ranges of oil or protein to processors interested in those traits. This portfolio also supports efforts by the United Soybean Board to encourage growers to choose soybeans that fit processor needs.

"Our goal is to bring seed to the market that broadens grower choice, is tailored to specific market needs and delivers a high potential for return on investment," said Powell. "With Extra Edge products, we have done just that. Growers can be confident in selecting them based on our strong reputation of quality genetics, extensive field testing and use of the latest techniques to accurately measure and characterize the seeds' suitability for targeted end-use markets."

Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology. The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2003 were approximately $6.6 billion. Syngenta employs some 19,000 people in over 90 countries. Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York (SYT).

NK* and Extra Edge(tm) are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company.