Onion

What is Onion?

Onions are a type of bulbous vegetable that belongs to the genus Allium. They are known for their pungent flavor and distinctive aroma, which are the result of a variety of sulfur-containing compounds that are produced when the onion's cell walls are broken. Onions are widely used in cooking and can be found in a range of dishes, from salads and soups to stews and curries. They are also prized for their health benefits, as they are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that can help to protect against chronic diseases.

There are several species of onions, each with its unique characteristics. The most common species is Allium cepa, which includes both yellow and white onions. These onions are characterized by their papery outer skin and their layered inner structure. Other species include Allium fistulosum, or scallions, which are long and thin with a mild flavor, and Allium schoenoprasum, or chives, which have a delicate onion flavor and are often used as a garnish. There are also several wild species of onions, including Allium tricoccum, or ramps, which are highly prized by chefs for their unique flavor.

Onions are thought to have originated in central Asia and have been cultivated for thousands of years. They are now grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. Onions are typically grown from sets or transplants, which are small bulbs that are planted in the soil. They are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in a range of soil types and climates. However, they do require adequate moisture and nutrients to produce a good crop.

Overall, onions are a versatile and flavorful vegetable that is widely used in cooking. With their range of species and cultivars, onions offer a variety of flavors and textures that can be used in a range of dishes. They are also a good source of nutrients and can help to promote good health. Whether sautéed, roasted, or raw, onions are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world.

Onion Production in the World

The global production of Onion plays a significant role in agriculture and trade. As of 2023, India is the top producer, contributing 30,208,000 tonnes, which accounts for 27.15% of the total global production. China ranks second, producing 24,860,319 tonnes, representing 22.34% of the world's output. Other significant producers include Egypt, United States, and Turkiye, with production levels of 3,804,077, 3,315,421, and 2,600,000 tonnes, respectively. Antigua and Barbuda has the lowest production among the listed countries, contributing just 6 tonnes in 2023. In total, global production of Onion reached approximately 111,273,600 tonnes in 2023.


Top 10 countries by Onions production 2023


Countries Ranked by Onion Production in 2023

Source:FAOSTAT
Last Updated: 23 Jan 2025
RankCountryProduction (Tonnes)Acreage (Hectare)Yield
1
India Flag
India
30,208,0001,740,00017,361
2
China Flag
China
24,860,3191,127,72722,045
3
Egypt Flag
Egypt
3,804,077104,56936,379
4
United States Flag
United States
3,315,42154,10761,275
5
Turkiye Flag
Turkiye
2,600,00060,48742,984
6
Bangladesh Flag
Bangladesh
2,546,994203,60612,509
7
Iran Flag
Iran
2,099,86654,45238,564
8
Indonesia Flag
Indonesia
1,985,233181,68310,927
9
Pakistan Flag
Pakistan
1,843,494135,49913,605
10
Algeria Flag
Algeria
1,813,46749,17736,876
11
Mexico Flag
Mexico
1,801,13755,72732,321
12
Russia Flag
Russia
1,714,07253,43532,078
13
Nigeria Flag
Nigeria
1,692,280622,6742,718
14
Brazil Flag
Brazil
1,639,97049,35833,226
15
Sudan Flag
Sudan
1,627,39589,75118,132
16
Niger Flag
Niger
1,621,93650,11632,363
17
Netherlands Flag
Netherlands
1,605,30034,96045,918
18
Uzbekistan Flag
Uzbekistan
1,318,52836,80535,825
19
Spain Flag
Spain
1,205,35023,26051,821
20
Japan Flag
Japan
1,204,08725,17547,828
21
South Korea Flag
South Korea
1,172,84817,28267,865
22
Myanmar Flag
Myanmar
1,050,09470,77614,837
23
Ukraine Flag
Ukraine
889,01046,70019,037
24
Kazakhstan Flag
Kazakhstan
812,78026,62030,532
25
Germany Flag
Germany
759,56017,43043,578
26
France Flag
France
742,15021,78034,075
27
Argentina Flag
Argentina
687,70220,67733,259
28
South Africa Flag
South Africa
661,82726,55024,927
29
Tajikistan Flag
Tajikistan
648,66818,45035,158
30
Colombia Flag
Colombia
647,18026,20624,696
31
Poland Flag
Poland
635,30022,20028,617
32
Morocco Flag
Morocco
621,31019,68731,559
33
Afghanistan Flag
Afghanistan
586,00034,00017,235
34
Peru Flag
Peru
537,26114,37537,374
35
Senegal Flag
Senegal
421,46413,37631,509
36
Chile Flag
Chile
409,5148,49448,212
37
Italy Flag
Italy
380,47012,70029,958
38
Cameroon Flag
Cameroon
361,74537,4179,668
39
Vietnam Flag
Vietnam
360,237102,1693,526
40
Zimbabwe Flag
Zimbabwe
357,04313,28126,883
41
Uganda Flag
Uganda
329,93381,7824,034
42
Azerbaijan Flag
Azerbaijan
310,25911,02728,136
43
Tanzania Flag
Tanzania
303,83428,67310,597
44
Ethiopia Flag
Ethiopia
302,56434,5058,769
45
Saudi Arabia Flag
Saudi Arabia
298,5817,83238,123
46
United Kingdom Flag
United Kingdom
293,1557,34939,889
47
Canada Flag
Canada
276,5655,84147,349
48
Australia Flag
Australia
255,1594,53956,220
49
Mozambique Flag
Mozambique
254,29228,1729,026
50
Philippines Flag
Philippines
252,48721,32511,840
51
Belarus Flag
Belarus
238,73911,61520,554
52
Yemen Flag
Yemen
231,90915,99514,499
53
Kyrgyzstan Flag
Kyrgyzstan
215,7458,96124,076
54
Guatemala Flag
Guatemala
189,7626,27230,254
55
Libya Flag
Libya
188,8399,07120,817
56
Tunisia Flag
Tunisia
188,7696,02731,319
57
Venezuela Flag
Venezuela
186,7308,73921,368
58
Belgium Flag
Belgium
172,0605,12033,606
59
Malawi Flag
Malawi
171,3758,73819,612
60
Kenya Flag
Kenya
163,10011,05614,752
61
Austria Flag
Austria
159,5303,57044,686
62
Ghana Flag
Ghana
146,4378,08818,105
63
Bolivia Flag
Bolivia
144,9049,64815,019
64
Romania Flag
Romania
142,76015,4609,234
65
Jordan Flag
Jordan
138,9923,52739,408
66
Albania Flag
Albania
117,1105,35721,860
67
Greece Flag
Greece
109,0503,13034,840
68
Dominican Republic Flag
Dominican Republic
105,3765,29119,917
69
Syria Flag
Syria
99,1675,61017,677
70
Benin Flag
Benin
94,9068,38711,316
71
Turkmenistan Flag
Turkmenistan
89,4893,28627,237
72
North Korea Flag
North Korea
86,3649,1919,397
73
Israel Flag
Israel
84,0964,05120,759
74
Mali Flag
Mali
80,9804,19619,301
75
Lebanon Flag
Lebanon
72,4741,78640,580
76
Sweden Flag
Sweden
71,5101,49047,993
77
Moldova Flag
Moldova
66,6207,7028,649
78
Cuba Flag
Cuba
63,06311,1865,638
79
North Macedonia Flag
North Macedonia
61,0303,38518,030
80
Czech Republic Flag
Czech Republic
58,5201,92030,479
81
Hungary Flag
Hungary
58,2201,67034,862
82
Taiwan Flag
Taiwan
57,7501,19648,278
83
Denmark Flag
Denmark
57,1701,44039,701
84
Portugal Flag
Portugal
56,9201,38041,246
85
Democratic Republic of the Congo Flag
Democratic Republic of the Congo
56,19510,7075,248
86
Sri Lanka Flag
Sri Lanka
54,4354,20612,942
87
Costa Rica Flag
Costa Rica
46,7891,44732,335
88
Zambia Flag
Zambia
40,9832,56515,981
89
Bulgaria Flag
Bulgaria
38,9603,02012,901
90
Switzerland Flag
Switzerland
38,7201,33828,939
91
Armenia Flag
Armenia
38,1021,11934,050
92
Thailand Flag
Thailand
36,2671,44825,052
93
Bosnia and Herzegovina Flag
Bosnia and Herzegovina
35,3122,05317,200
94
Rwanda Flag
Rwanda
35,3083,49510,101
95
Slovakia Flag
Slovakia
33,9401,03032,952
96
Finland Flag
Finland
31,7001,21026,198
97
Uruguay Flag
Uruguay
31,5871,33723,624
98
Paraguay Flag
Paraguay
31,3345,4115,791
99
Palestine Flag
Palestine
28,9871,06727,175
100
Serbia Flag
Serbia
27,8934,0226,935
101
Iraq Flag
Iraq
27,3602,8109,737
102
Nicaragua Flag
Nicaragua
26,36094128,011
103
Namibia Flag
Namibia
26,2781,48117,742
104
Lithuania Flag
Lithuania
25,3701,45017,497
105
Mongolia Flag
Mongolia
25,0291,92612,995
106
Panama Flag
Panama
24,22996525,105
107
Chad Flag
Chad
22,1261,70113,009
108
Oman Flag
Oman
17,19750434,121
109
Croatia Flag
Croatia
16,09066024,379
110
Kuwait Flag
Kuwait
15,66038840,380
111
Honduras Flag
Honduras
15,61766123,641
112
Guyana Flag
Guyana
15,38323964,335
113
Madagascar Flag
Madagascar
10,8242,0015,409
114
Ecuador Flag
Ecuador
10,2104,1392,467
115
Slovenia Flag
Slovenia
9,49049019,367
116
Haiti Flag
Haiti
8,7621,7554,993
117
Mauritius Flag
Mauritius
8,44359614,166
118
Ireland Flag
Ireland
8,20026031,539
119
Latvia Flag
Latvia
7,91046017,196
120
Malta Flag
Malta
7,460--
121
Georgia Flag
Georgia
7,0009007,778
122
Botswana Flag
Botswana
6,70418436,448
123
Jamaica Flag
Jamaica
6,08629020,986
124
Somalia Flag
Somalia
5,6853,7581,513
125
Cyprus Flag
Cyprus
4,38014031,286
126
Cabo Verde Flag
Cabo Verde
2,71510326,250
127
Qatar Flag
Qatar
2,56011023,273
128
El Salvador Flag
El Salvador
1,6878320,299
129
Luxembourg Flag
Luxembourg
1,4006023,333
130
Bahrain Flag
Bahrain
1,1203631,111
131
Barbados Flag
Barbados
1,0384324,051
132
Montenegro Flag
Montenegro
1,0075119,808
133
The Bahamas Flag
The Bahamas
8321167,199
134
Republic of the Congo Flag
Republic of the Congo
6275910,626
135
Sao Tome and Principe Flag
Sao Tome and Principe
3633510,504
136
Estonia Flag
Estonia
230405,750
137
Bhutan Flag
Bhutan
184772,381
138
St. Kitts and Nevis Flag
St. Kitts and Nevis
42411,345
139
Maldives Flag
Maldives
40104,129
140
Antigua and Barbuda Flag
Antigua and Barbuda
661,098

cultivation of Onion

Onion cultivation is a common agricultural practice worldwide. Onions are grown in a variety of soils, but they prefer well-drained soils with a high organic matter content. Onion seeds can be sown directly in the field or grown in a greenhouse before transplanting. The timing of planting depends on the climate and the variety of onions being grown.

After the seeds have sprouted and the seedlings have grown to a certain size, they are ready for transplantation into the field. Usually, onion seedlings are transplanted at 4-6 weeks old, and when their diameter is between 1/4 to 3/8 inches. The typical arrangement is to plant the seedlings in rows, with a spacing of 6-8 inches between plants and 12-18 inches between rows.

Onions require a lot of water during their growing period. They should be irrigated regularly to maintain moisture in the soil. However, care should be taken not to overwater the onions, as this can lead to the rotting of the bulbs. Weeds should also be removed regularly to reduce competition for water and nutrients.

The onion plants develop both leaves and stem above ground and bulbs below ground as they grow. Trimming the leaves and stems from time to time can help promote the growth of the bulbs. The onion bulbs are usually ready to be harvested when the leaves begin to turn yellow and wilt. Afterward, the plants should be uprooted and left to dry in the sun for several days before being stored.

Onion cultivation requires careful management and attention to detail, but with proper care, onions can be a profitable and rewarding crop for farmers.

Health Benefits of Onion

Onions are a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides a range of health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits of onions:

  1. Rich in antioxidants: Onions contain a range of antioxidants, including quercetin and sulfur compounds, which help to protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
  2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Onions also contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can be beneficial for people with conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
  3. Heart health: Onions are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They also contain sulfur compounds that may help to reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow.
  4. Cancer prevention: Some studies have suggested that onions may have anti-cancer properties. The sulfur compounds in onions may help to prevent the development and progression of certain types of cancer, including colon, breast, and prostate cancer.
  5. Immune system support: Onions contain a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and zinc, which are important for immune system function. They may also have antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help to protect against infections.
  6. Digestive health: Onions contain prebiotic fibers that can help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This can help to improve digestive health and reduce the risk of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Overall, onions are a nutritious and flavorful vegetable that offer a range of health benefits. From reducing inflammation and protecting against cancer to supporting heart and digestive health, there are many reasons to include onions in your diet.

Nutritional Information of Onion

The nutritional content of onions per 100 grams can vary slightly based on the specific variety and growing conditions. However, here is a general overview of the approximate nutritional values:

  • Calories: 40 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 9.3 grams
  • Fiber: 1.7 grams
  • Protein: 1.1 grams
  • Fat: 0.1 grams
  • Vitamin C: 7.4 milligrams (12% of the recommended daily intake)
  • Vitamin B6: 0.1 milligrams (6% of the recommended daily intake)
  • Folate: 19 micrograms (5% of the recommended daily intake)
  • Potassium: 146 milligrams
  • Magnesium: 10 milligrams
  • Calcium: 23 milligrams

It's important to note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific onion variety and growing conditions.

Regional Variety of Onion

Onions are cultivated in various regions worldwide, leading to the development of different regional varieties. Here are some examples of regional varieties of onions:

  1. Vidalia Onion (Georgia, United States): Known for its mild and sweet flavor, Vidalia onions are primarily grown in Georgia and are popular for their use in salads, sandwiches, and as a general cooking onion.
  2. Walla Walla Onion (Washington, United States): Named after the city of Walla Walla in Washington state, Walla Walla onions are sweet and juicy with a mild flavor. They are often enjoyed raw in salads and sandwiches.
  3. Bermuda Onion (Bermuda): Bermuda onions have a slightly flattened shape and a mild, sweet taste. They are commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and for grilling or caramelizing.
  4. Red Onion (Spain and Italy): Red onions, known for their vibrant purplish-red skin and mild to moderate flavor, are grown in various regions globally. Spain and Italy are notable producers of red onions.
  5. Sweet Onion (Various Regions): Sweet onions are grown in different regions worldwide, including the Vidalia onion mentioned earlier. Other well-known sweet onion varieties include the Maui onion from Hawaii, Texas Sweet onion from Texas, and the Walla Walla Sweet onion from Washington state.
  6. Shallot (France and Southeast Asia): Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to regular onions. They are commonly used in French and Southeast Asian cuisines for their aromatic qualities.

These examples highlight only a handful of the diverse regional onion varieties. Each type possesses distinct flavor characteristics and culinary applications, showcasing the versatility of onions as an ingredient cherished in various global cuisines.

Structure of Onion

The onion is a bulbous vegetable with a distinctive layered structure. The outer layer of the onion is made up of dry, papery skin that helps to protect the inner layers. Underneath the skin, several layers of fleshy, white, or yellowish tissue make up the edible portion of the onion.

The innermost layer of the onion is the basal plate, which is the point where the roots emerge. Above the basal plate is the stem disc, which is the point where the stem emerges. The stem disc is covered by a thin layer of tissue called the tunica, which gives rise to the leaves and the bulb of the onion.

The leaves of the onion emerge from the stem disc and grow upward, forming a long, hollow stem that can reach up to 3 feet in height. The stem is topped by a cluster of small, white, or pinkish flowers that bloom in mid-summer.

The bulb is formed from a combination of leaf attachments and stems disc tissue. The fleshy, white, or yellowish layers of the onion are formed by the swollen leaf attachments, while the stem disc tissue forms the core of the onion. The layers of the onion are separated by thin membranes that help keep the layers intact.

Overall, the structure of the onion is complex and multi-layered, with each layer serving a distinct function. From the papery outer skin to the fleshy, edible layers, each part of the onion contributes to the overall structure and flavor of this delicious and versatile vegetable.

Types of Onion

There are many different types of onions, each with its distinct flavor, texture, and appearance. Here are some of the most common types of onions:

  1. Yellow onions: These are the most commonly used type of onion. They have yellowish-brown skin and a strong, pungent flavor. Yellow onions are often used as a cooking base for soups, stews, and sauces.
  2. Red onions: These have a deep red or purple skin and a milder, sweeter flavor than yellow onions. Red onions are often used raw in salads and sandwiches.
  3. White onions: These have white skin and a mild, sweet flavor. They are often used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
  4. Shallots: These have brownish-red skin and a mild, sweet flavor. They are often used in French cuisine and are a popular ingredient in vinaigrettes and sauces.
  5. Sweet onions: These are a variety of onion that is known for their sweet, mild flavor. Vidalia onions, Walla Walla onions, and Maui onions are all types of sweet onions.
  6. Spring onions: These are young onions that are harvested before they have fully matured. They have a milder flavor than mature onions and are often used in salads and stir-fries.
  7. Scallions: These are also known as green onions or spring onions. They have a long, green stalk and a small white bulb. Scallions have a mild, onion-like flavor and are often used as a garnish or in Asian cuisine.

Overall, the different types of onions offer a range of flavors and textures that can be used in a variety of culinary applications. From the strong, pungent flavor of yellow onions to the sweet, mild flavor of Vidalia onions, there is an onion variety to suit every taste and cooking style.

Uses of Onion

Onions are versatile vegetables that can be used in a wide range of culinary applications. Here are some of the most common uses of onions:

  1. Cooking base: Onions are often used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. They add flavor and aroma to the dish and help to build a complex flavor profile.
  2. Flavoring agent: Onions can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and meat dishes. They can be cooked or raw, depending on the desired flavor and texture.
  3. Garnish: To enhance the texture and taste of certain meals like tacos, burgers, and hot dogs, chopped or sliced onions are commonly utilized as a topping. Their crispiness and sharp flavor can elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  4. Pickling: Onions can be pickled in vinegar and spices to create a tangy and flavorful condiment. Pickled onions are often served with sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
  5. Health benefits: Onions are also believed to have several health benefits. They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.

Onions are highly adaptable and nourishing vegetables that can be incorporated into various cooking techniques. They are commonly used in a range of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and sandwiches, and are considered a fundamental component of numerous global cuisines.

Why does cutting onions make our eyes cry?

Many people experience eye irritation while cutting onions, which can cause tearing, stinging, and redness. This is because onions contain a chemical called syn-propanethial-S-oxide, which is released when the onion is cut or sliced. When this chemical comes into contact with the eyes, it reacts with the moisture in the tear ducts, producing sulfuric acid. This can cause a burning sensation and make the eyes water.

There are several ways to reduce eye irritation while cutting onions. One of the most effective is to chill the onion in the refrigerator or freezer before cutting it. This can help to slow down the release of syn-propanethial-S-oxide, reducing the amount of sulfuric acid produced.

Another technique is to cut the onion under running water or in a bowl of water. This can help to wash away the syn-propanethial-S-oxide before it has a chance to react with the eyes.

Wearing protective eyewear, such as goggles or safety glasses, can also help to prevent eye irritation while cutting onions. This can be particularly useful for people who cut onions frequently or in large quantities.

Some people also suggest lighting a candle or placing a piece of bread in their mouth while cutting onions. While there is no scientific evidence to support these methods, they may help to reduce eye irritation for some people.

Overall, while eye irritation while cutting onions can be unpleasant, there are several ways to reduce its impact. By chilling the onion, cutting it underwater, wearing protective eyewear, or trying other home remedies, you can help to minimize eye irritation and make the experience of cutting onions more enjoyable.