ATLANTA, GA - On my calendar of food holidays, I currently have Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day, National Licorice Day, and now Vidalia® onion pack date on April 12. The sweet onion is set to ship next month, and the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Vidalia Onion Committee (VOC) announced that date as the official pack date for the 2022 Vidalia onion season.
“Each year, I, along with the Vidalia Onion Committee, look forward to sharing when Vidalia onions will be on their way to stores, so I’m pleased to announce April 12 as the official pack date this season,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black. “Cultivated for more than 80 years, Vidalia onions mean a great deal to the state of Georgia, earning a renowned reputation for their sweet, distinct flavor and versatility beloved by chefs and home cooks alike.”
Only available for a limited time each year, Vidalia onions hitting grocery store shelves often signals spring has sprung for fans near and far from the onions’ home state of Georgia, noted the release. The pack date is determined by growing season soil and weather conditions to ensure the highest quality Vidalia onions. This year, the Vidalia Onion Advisory Panel unanimously voted April 12 as the 2022 pack date.
The pack date ushers in the start of the Vidalia onion season, where shoppers can get their hands on the famous seasonal treat between April and August. Known for their sweet, mild flavor, these onions complement any dish—from soups to salads and even desserts.
“In the 2022 season, approximately 10,000 acres of Vidalia onions were planted by 60 registered farmers across 20 southeastern Georgia counties,” said VOC Chairman Cliff Riner. “Representing about 40 percent of the sweet onion market across America, Vidalia onions are sold in all 50 states and most of Canada.”
Originally discovered by accident in the 1930s during the Great Depression, Vidalia onions have grown to be considered as a favorite across America. The Vidalia Onion Act of 1986 granted the trademark of the name “Vidalia onions” and defined the growing region in South Georgia. Vidalia onions are grown from a distinctive Granex seed, then packed and sold on or after the official pack date annually.
I see a grilled cheese sandwich with some caramelized onions in my future. Help your shoppers get in on the celebrations too as we continue to report.
