Onions

Tues, Jan 23rd, 2024

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

Onion pricing continues to rise due to sustained export demand. Industry-wide, white onion supply is especially scarce. Expect elevated markets on all colors through May. We recommend placing orders seven days prior to the requested load date to secure placement.

Prices for white onions are expected to remain extreme until mid-March.
- White onion storage supplies are in too few hands to report to the USDA.
Northwest storages are diminishing; smaller packing sheds could end their season by March.
- Contracts are escalated; suppliers are watching averages.
Early Mexican-grown onions, usually destined for the United States, are receiving a premium for export in Europe.
- Mexican-grown onion volume is late down 40% due to cold weather and water shortages in the fall.
- Mexican-grown onions are expected to start crossing in more numbers in late February with yellows and reds, with whites in early March.
- The Mexican national market is demand is high, placing upward pressure on the United States's supply.
Canadian-grown storage is dwindling due to diminishing quality.
Texas-grown onions are expected to be available in mid-March
Cold weather in Georgia has delayed expected start until mid-April
California is on track with new crop onions becoming available in April.
New Mexico is on track with new crop onions becoming available in June.