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"We are thrilled to introduce sweet onions as part of our 2024-2025 onion season"

Dutoit is introducing sweet onions which are expected to quickly become a pantry staple, thanks to their mild flavour, low pungency, and versatility in both raw and cooked dishes. Available seasonally from November to March.

"We are thrilled to introduce sweet onions as part of our 2024-2025 onion season," says Pieter du Toit, Commercial Director - Vegetables. "These onions are not only a culinary game-changer, offering a unique sweetness and mild flavour, but they also reflect our commitment to continuous innovation, meeting consumer demand, and enhancing our global footprint."

Unlike traditional onions, sweet onions offer a delicate sweetness that shines when used fresh in salads, salsas, and sandwiches or caramelised for a rich, flavourful touch in hot dishes. Their versatility makes them ideal for a wide range of culinary applications, offering chefs and home cooks alike a fresh alternative to traditional onions. And with growing interest in South African produce worldwide, these sweet onions are set to showcase the country's agricultural excellence on the global stage.

Heavy winter rains led to a challenging start to the season with delayed planting, but the arrival of warmer weather in November 2024 allowed the crops to catch up.

"We rely on cutting-edge farming technology to ensure consistent quality," says Pieter. "From GPS-guided tractors and drone monitoring to smartphone-controlled irrigation systems, these tools have allowed us to stay ahead of challenges and guarantee our onions meet the highest standards."

In addition to advanced technology, Dutoit's sweet onions benefit from state-of-the-art storage facilities. Cooling rooms set to a precise 1°C ensure optimal freshness, while advanced camera systems during packing ensure only the best onions make it to market, whether locally or internationally.

Sustainability is also central to Dutoit's operations. The company has made significant improvements to its irrigation systems and drainage to reduce water usage while maintaining the health of the crops. With increased reliance on cooling storage, Dutoit has also addressed export logistics challenges, ensuring that sweet onions reach international customers in peak condition.

Dutoit's first batch of sweet onions hit the shelves in December 2024, marking a milestone not just for the company but for the South African agricultural sector as a whole.

"This is more than just a new product; it's a symbol of our ability to innovate and adapt," concludes Pieter. "We're excited to see how South African consumers embrace sweet onions in their kitchens, and we look forward to expanding their reach on the global stage."

For more information:
www.dutoitagri.co.za

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