Leading South African onion producer Dutoit Vegetables had a challenging start to the season, but is optimistic about quality after a normal October and November
Dutoit Vegetables has said that it sees exciting opportunities for its onions in export markets, with volumes growing over the past few years.
The producer-marketer noted that this year it was particularly excited about its new offering of sweet onions, with shipments sent to Spain for a second year.
The company exports mostly brown onions, but demand for red onions and shallots has also been growing.
Production this season has been challenging, with late and heavy winter rains making things difficult for onions producers in South Africa’s Western Cape.
Dutoit said its performance so far had been one of resilience, adaptability, and ”the relentless pursuit of quality”.
“This year started off with significant challenges,” said Pieter du Toit, commercial director vegetables at Dutoit Vegetables.
“The winter rains were heavier than usual, leaving our fields waterlogged and testing the limits of our drainage systems,” he explained. ”Planting was difficult, and early crop growth was slower than in previous years.”
The onset of warmer weather in November brought a much-needed turnaround.
“While our onions are slightly behind the typical schedule, we’re optimistic about the months ahead,” he noted.
The first brown and red onions from Dutoit Onions were on supermarket shelves in mid-November.
“We are excited that shallots will follow in mid-January, aligning with our typical timeline,” du Toit continued. ”Early indications suggest that this season’s yield and quality will be consistent with previous years.
“Despite the challenging start, we remain confident in delivering a successful harvest.”
One of the most exciting developments this year has been the introduction of sweet onions.
“These onions, with their low pungency and unique flavour profile, are ideal for a variety of culinary uses and are destined for both local and export markets,” he said.
”This new product showcases our commitment to innovation and diversification, offering our buyers something truly special.”
There are challenges though, with exports logistics, particularly at the port of Cape Town, continuing to be a concern.
“To address this, we have increased the use of cooling storage to ensure our products remain in peak condition while awaiting shipment,” du Toit pointed out.
”Sustainability also remains at the heart of everything we do. From improved drainage systems to more efficient water use, we are committed to responsible farming practices that protect the environment and support long-term agricultural success.
“Some five years ago we took a decision to increase our onion exports, and this has boosted our group’s activities,” he added.
”We have improved our cultivar range and now supply customers in the United Kingdom, the European Union and the Middle East, where we supply mainly retail customers. Africa also features in our export plans, but demand is currently lower than in the past.”
