FRESNO, CA - Although onions are known for bringing a tear to the eye, I see them as tears of joy, standing firm in my belief that onions are one of the most versatile vegetables nature has to offer. As 2021 continues to move at lightning speed, it is only a matter of time before demand for the delicious category hits a high note. The heat will bring with it the promise of barbeques and summertime favorites like burgers and hot dogs—two classics best topped with onions. The above reasons are why I was excited to discuss Baloian Farms’ upcoming red onion season and its expanded offerings with Red Onion Commodity Manager and Salesperson, Reiley Johnstone.

“These onions are so delicious that both consumer demand and culinary demand are increasing for them every season, and we are very pleased and blessed to offer these incredible onions to our customers,” Reiley raves. “We will be setting up promotional opportunities for Memorial Day and the 4th of July, so get your BBQ’s ready and Purchase Order Books open, because 2021 is looking to be a great year for our onions!”

To expand its value-added offerings this year, Baloian will include 40 lb bulk cardboard cartons, a 25 lb bulk net sack, and 10 and 5 lb cardboard boxes, all of which will benefit the needs of both its retail and foodservice partners.

Baloian specializes in the farming and distribution of an exclusive heirloom variety of Italian Sweet Red Onions that are harvested throughout the summer and fall seasons in Fresno, California. In the past, the product has succeeded in capturing the attention of retail buyers from across the U.S. and Canada with its distinct flavor and quality.

The company’s Italian Sweet Red Onion harvest season will hit full swing from May through September, with Baloian currently in the growing stages of production. As the weather has remained cooperative—outside of a few rogue storms that ended up delivering additional water resources—great quality is to be expected this season.

“Quality looks to be excellent this year,” explains Reiley. “The onions have a strong vertical stand and are currently enjoying a growth stage in the nutrient-rich soil of the San Joaquin Valley. With cooler nights and warmer days in the forecast, these onions will be ready for harvest before we know it.”

This year’s acreage of red onions will be similar to that of last year’s crop. Additionally, Baloian is anticipating an earlier start to the harvest and a later finish, providing ample time to produce enough onions to meet the growing needs and demands of its consumer base, as well as expand into new markets in 2021.

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Baloian Farms