Onion Nutrition, Benefits, Farming, Cost, Profit and Market Farming Writers

Onion – Nutrition, Benefits, Farming, Cost, Profit and Global Market | Farming Writers

1. Introduction

Onion (Allium cepa) is one of the most essential vegetables in the world, used in almost every cuisine. Whether it is Indian curries, Chinese stir-fries, European salads, Middle Eastern dishes, or American fast food, onion forms the base of flavor and aroma.

Onions are cultivated in more than 170 countries and are considered a high-profit commercial crop. They have long shelf life, high demand throughout the year, and strong export markets. Apart from culinary importance, onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and medicinal compounds like quercetin.

2. Nutritional Value (per 100 g raw onion)

NutrientAmountKey BenefitCalories40 kcalLow-calorie vegetableCarbohydrates9.3 gEnergy sourceFiber1.7 gDigestive healthProtein1.1 gBody repairVitamin C7.4 mgImmunity boosterVitamin B60.12 mgNerve & brain healthPotassium146 mgHeart healthAntioxidantsHighAnti-inflammatory

3. Health Benefits of Onion

Boosts immunity due to antioxidants and Vitamin C.

Improves digestion because of fiber and prebiotics.

Heart-protective – controls blood pressure and cholesterol.

Controls blood sugar – helpful for diabetes management.

Anti-inflammatory properties reduce infections.

Good for skin & hair – improves collagen production.

Rich in quercetin, a strong antioxidant that prevents cancer and chronic diseases.

4. Uses of Onion

Culinary Uses

Gravies, curries, soups

Salads, stir-fries

Onion rings, sandwiches, burgers

Pickles and chutneys

Industrial Uses

Dehydrated onion flakes/powder

Onion oil and extracts

Frozen onion products

Medicinal/Home Uses

Onion juice for cold and cough

Anti-inflammatory packs

Skin and hair care

5. Cultivation Guide

Climate

Best temperature: 13–24°C

Requires dry climate at maturity

Soil

Well-drained sandy loam soil

pH 6–7

Seed Requirement

8–10 kg per hectare

Sowing Time

Kharif: June–July

Rabi: October–December

Irrigation

First irrigation immediately after sowing

Then every 7–12 days

Fertilizers

FYM: 20 tons/ha

NPK: 100:50:50 kg/ha

Diseases

Purple blotch, downy mildew, thrips

Control: crop rotation + organic sprays

Yield

25–35 tons per hectare

6. Cost and Profit Analysis (INR & USD)

Cost of Cultivation (per hectare)

ItemCost (INR)Cost (USD)Seeds₹12,000$145Fertilizers₹10,000$120Labor₹25,000$300Irrigation₹8,000$96Plant protection₹5,000$60Harvest & transport₹18,000$215Miscellaneous₹7,000$85Total Cost₹85,000$1,020

Yield

30,000 kg (30 tons) per hectare

Market Price

India: ₹15–35 per kg

International: $1–2 per kg

Profit

India (average ₹20/kg):

Revenue = 30,000 × ₹20 = ₹6,00,000

Profit = ₹6,00,000 – ₹85,000 = ₹5,15,000

Export ($1.5/kg):

Revenue = 30,000 × $1.5 = $45,000

Profit = $45,000 – $1,020 = $43,980 per hectare

Onion is among the most profitable vegetables globally.

7. Global Market Overview

Top Producers

China

India

USA

Turkey

Russia

Top Exporters

Netherlands

India

Egypt

Mexico

Spain

Key Importers

Bangladesh

Malaysia

Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)

UK

Europe

Onion demand is stable all year, making it a high-value commercial crop.

8. Marketing & Selling Strategies

Sell in local wholesale markets

Supply to restaurants, hotels, and retail chains

Contract supply to food companies

Storage for off-season high price

Export to Middle East & Europe

Sell dehydrated onions to FMCG industry

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How long does onion take to mature?
110–130 days depending on variety.

Q2. What is the best season for onion farming?
Rabi season gives the highest yield and quality.

Q3. Is onion farming profitable?
Yes, farmers can earn ₹5 lakh+ profit per hectare.

Q4. Can onions be exported?
Yes, India is among the top onion exporters.

Q5. Which onion variety is best?
NHRDF Red, Pusa Red, Bhima Super, Agrifound Light Red.

10. Conclusion

Onion is a globally significant vegetable with vast nutritional, medicinal, and commercial value. It is an evergreen market crop that gives excellent returns to farmers. Due to its high demand, long shelf life, and export opportunities, onion farming remains one of the most profitable agricultural ventures.

With proper cultivation practices, input management, and market timing, farmers can easily earn high profit margins. Its consistent demand ensures income stability throughout the year.

Onion is a complete package: nutritious for consumers and highly rewarding for farmers.

✍️Farming Writers