4093 Onions

"Adding flavor and depth to cuisines worldwide"

Onions are a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines around the world, known for their pungent flavor, versatility, and tear-inducing properties.

Also known as: Bulb onions, Common onions, Garden onions

Botanical name: Allium spp.

Onions illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

4093 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

VegetablesOnionsLarge

Origin

Central Asia, specifically the region between Pakistan and Western China

Storage Temperature

0°C to 4°C (32°F to 39°F)

Shelf Life

1 to 8 months

Status

Approved

About Onions

Onions are a cool-season, biennial crop that belongs to the Allium family, which also includes garlic, leeks, and chives. They are grown for their edible bulbs, which come in a range of colors, including yellow, brown, white, and red.

Nutrition Information

Raw onions are low in calories and rich in nutrients. One 100-gram serving of raw yellow/brown onion contains approximately 44 calories, 1.1 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat, 11.3 grams of carbohydrates and 2.6 grams of dietary fiber. They are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including 10 milligrams of calcium, 0.3 milligrams of iron, 20 milligrams of magnesium, 20 milligrams of phosphorus, 146 milligrams of potassium, 1.5 milligrams of zinc, 8 milligrams of vitamin C, 0.5 milligrams of vitamin E, 0.2 milligrams of vitamin K and various B vitamins.

Storage & Handling

Onions require cool, dry and well-ventilated storage conditions to maintain quality

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 0°C to 4°C (32°F to 39°F)
Humidity: 80% to 90%
Packaging: Well-ventilated bags, mesh bags or boxes
Shelf Life: 1 to 8 months
Storage Notes: High temperature and humidity can lead to sprouting and decay.

Search PLU Codes

Tags
4093OnionsAllium spp.LargeVegetablesOnionsApproved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
onions
Variety:
Yellow/Brown
Created:
December 1999
Last Updated:
December 2023
PLU Code Reference

4-digit codes: Conventionally grown produce

5-digit codes starting with 9: Organic produce

5-digit codes starting with 8: Originally intended for GMO (rarely used)


PLU codes streamline checkout processes, improve inventory management, and provide consistency across different stores. The system was developed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).