Vidalia onions headed for shelves April 15

The Vidalia onion season is set to begin, as Georgia's agriculture commissioner and the Vidalia Onion Committee say the sweet onions will start shipping to grocery stores April 15.

"I'm excited to announce, in coordination with the Vidalia Onion Committee, that April 15 is the official pack date for this year's Vidalia onion season," Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said in a news release. "Georgia’s world-famous Vidalia onions are coming to a store near you very soon, and we are thrilled that professional chefs, home cooks and consumers across the globe will soon be enjoying the incredible, sweet flavor of our Georgia Grown Vidalia onions."

Vidalia onions, prized for their sweetness and versatility, are available for a limited time each year from April through early September. Consumers eagerly anticipate the arrival of these seasonal favorites, which have become a staple in kitchens throughout the U.S., the release said. The annual pack date is carefully determined based on soil and weather conditions during the growing season, ensuring that only the highest-quality onions reach consumers.

This year, the Vidalia Onion Advisory Panel conducted an in-depth review before recommending the pack date that Harper subsequently approved.

Vidalia onions thrive in a unique growing region spanning 20 counties in south Georgia. Their sought-after flavor results from a delicate balance of specific weather patterns and soil conditions found exclusively in this area, creating an optimal environment for their growth.

"For the upcoming 2025 season, we have 10,000 acres of Vidalia onions planted in the production region," said Vidalia Onion Committee Chairman Cliff Riner. "Our farmers are dedicated to sustaining this tradition, and it's evident that consumer demand for Vidalia onions remains strong. We look forward to another successful season defined by quality and flavor."

Farmers hand-plant, harvest and cure Vidalia onions with care to ensure each onion meets stringent quality standards, the release said. The Vidalia Onion Act of 1986 established the official growing region and trademarked the term Vidalia onion, ensuring that only onions grown within this designated area can bear the name. Each year, Vidalia onions are harvested and packed for sale only after the official pack date for peak freshness.

Vidalia onion growers have worked to ensure a successful season, even after facing numerous weather challenges throughout the growing period, the release said.

"It was unexpected that our crop would endure a tropical storm, a hurricane, floods and even 6 inches of snow — but that is exactly what happened," said VOC Executive Director Shane Curry. "Despite these unpredictable conditions, our crop has managed to withstand the challenges with only minor damage. We are eager to provide our consumers with the high-quality Vidalia onions they look forward to each year."

As the countdown begins, consumers and retailers alike can prepare for the arrival of Vidalia onions, an ingredient that embodies the spirit of Georgia and elevates culinary experiences across the country, the release said. Whether sliced in salads, grilled as a side dish or caramelized for a savory topping, Vidalia onions can add a touch of sweetness to meals all season long.

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