Sweet onions are a popular item with consumers when they are in season. Make the most of them during spring and summer when they are available in good quantity. They are a fantastic addition to grilled items so make them a centerpiece of grilling displays.
Shipping
Sweet onions are shipped in a variety of sizes and weights. Most shippers will pack to request. Boxes and mesh bags are available in 10-, 25- and 40-pound increments. Consumer packs are available in 2-, 3- and 5-pound bags. RPC – 6411, 6416
Grades
Bermuda-granex-grano types U.S. No. 1 U.S. Combination U.S. No 2
Handling
Temperature: 45 to 55 F (7.2 to 12.7 C) Relative humidity: 70-75% Mist: no Typical shelf life: 30 to 180 days Odor producer (Do not store or transport odor-sensitive items with commodities that produce odors. Onions produce odors that will be absorbed by apples, celery and pears.) Odor-sensitive (Onions will absorb odors produced by apples and pears.) Moderately sensitive to freezing injury (Able to recover from one or two light freezes.) For the short time onions are held at retail, they are usually not refrigerated. They need a dry atmosphere and too much humidity induces decay. Onions draw moisture from vegetables they are stored with, which may also cause decay. Stack onions to provide good air circulation. If in bags, stack in a crisscross manner leaving air space across the middle. Cartons should be stacked.
