South Carolina Sweet Onions Now Available

South Carolina Sweet Onions are now available at local retailers around the state.

The sweet onions were introduced to the public in 2010 with farmers growing just 60 acres statewide. However, due to increased consumer interest over the last two years, this year South Carolina farmers have planted more acres with the sweet onions.

“We’re seeing good repeat business with the sweet onions,” said Sonny Dickinson, assistant director of marketing with the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. “Those who have bought and tried these sweet onions have liked it.”

Dickinson said as consumers are learning about, and loving, the South Carolina sweet onion they are incorporating them into recipes.

Sweet onions have a light golden-brown color and when cut open reveal a creamy white interior. They are perfect for cooking, baking or to garnish hamburgers and other dishes. Sweet onions are a winter crop, planted in the fall and harvested in the spring. Planting occurs from November 1 through December 31 and are harvested around mid-April to June. Currently the dried onions are now available to purchase at grocery stores throughout the state. Because of an interest from consumers buying these local onions, more grocery stores will offer both four and five pound bags of dried onions.