Sizing and Packaging Options
Onion Sizes
Onions range in size from less than one-inch in diameter to more than 4.5-inches in diameter. The most common sizes sold in the U.S. for retail are between 2 to 3-3/4 inches in diameter.
| Super Colossal | |
| 4-1/2″ and Up | Yellow, Red, and White |
| Colossal | |
| 3-3/4″ and Up | Yellow, Red, and White |
| Large/Jumbo | |
| 3″ and Up | Yellow, Red, and White |
| Medium | |
| 2″ to 3-1/4″ | Yellow, Red, and White |
| Pre-Pack | |
| 1-3/4″ to 3″ | Yellow and White |
| Small | |
| 1″ to 2-1/4″ | Yellow, Red, and White |
| Boiler | |
| 1″ to 1-7/8″ | Yellow and White |
| Creamer | |
| Under 1″ | Yellow and White |
Packaging Trends
Advances in packaging technology continue to give producers and retailers new ways to market produce. From convenient pack sizes and unique formats, to environmentally friendly materials, to high-impact graphic floor bins, retailers and producers can partner in creative ways to boost value, movement and profit.
Packaging trends are different from place to place around the country, but some of the most common trends for onions are:
- Loose, with small stickers on each bulb.
- Smaller mesh bags with a header label or wine glass label and carry-fresh bags.
- Packaging that showcases a product’s quality and/or has space for product tips or recipes.
- List item
Quick Response (QR) codes are on the latest packaging elements to offer consumers a way to get additional information immediately. QR codes are scanned by a consumer with their Smartphone which links them to the producer or supermarket’s website.
Common Dry Bulb Onion Packaging Options: Mesh Bags – 2lb, 3lb, 5lb pre-packs, 10lb, 25lb, and 50 lb. Cartons – 40lb or 50 lb.
Processed Onion Options: Fresh Processed – Whole peeled, Ready-to-bloom, Whole sliced, Diced, Rings, Stir-fry, and Slivered.
IQF Processed (Individually Quick Frozen)- Diced, Strips, and Rings
Note: Different pack sizes or custom cuts may be available upon request.
