Masters of Merchandising: IDAHO-EASTERN OREGON ONION COMMITTEE

IDAHO-EASTERN OREGON ONIONS MAKE SENSE FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS

USA Onions (homegrown in Idaho-Eastern Oregon) are well known for their golden globe shape and their remarkably mild flavor. And Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onions retain their texture when cooked, adding flavor and consistency to any dish.

ADVERTISING IDEAS

Prompting consumers to use their smartphones in-store will provide them with recipe ideas and useful onion information in real time and may increase sales.

USA Onions has an active following on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Simply displaying the words: “Follow USA Onions” with the Facebook, Twitter and YouTube icons will engage consumers and spark their interest to learn more about the product.

Check out the Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion Committee’s farm-to-table video on YouTube, and learn more about the onions our area is so famous for.

It can be viewed on any of the social media platforms and is available for displaying on in-store TV monitors, too.

VARIETY AND AVAILABILITY GUIDE

USA Onions are available in yellow, red and white varieties. Harvest begins in August; availability is August through May. During the growing season, the Idaho and Eastern Oregon Onion region provides approximately 30% of the bulb onions consumed in the United States. A complete sizing guide can be downloaded at USAOnions.com.

DISPLAY CARE AND HANDLING

USA Onions are known for their long shelf life.You can increase profitability by reducing shrink if you follow these simple steps:

• Onions should be kept dry and unrefrigerated at retail. Good air circulation is critical.

• Keep product rotated and remove separated and loose skins from the display bin.

BACK ROOM RECEIVING AND PREPARATION PROCEDURES

• When onions are received, they should be placed one foot away from the wall for proper air circulation. Air circulation is crucial for long-term storage. Remember not to use plastic pallet wrap on onions in storage, as the plastic wrap limits air movement.

• Onions should be kept cool and dry, ideally at 34 degrees to 45 degrees, with about 65% to 70% humidity.

• Onions should not be stored with other produce that gives off moisture, such as potatoes.