A new tearless onion variety is hitting shelves this November, marking the culmination of more than 30 years of traditional breeding work by a single onion developer. Smileys Onions were created through non-GMO crossbreeding and naturally become sweeter, milder, and less tear-inducing over time. The onions are planted in spring, harvested in late summer, and naturally cured before distribution, developing an apple-like sweetness balanced with mild onion flavor.
Storage and Cooking Performance The variety's lower water content gives it structural advantages in the kitchen.
Raw, Smileys remain crunchy; during cooking, they maintain their form rather than breaking down into mush. This versatility appeals to both fresh-cut and cooked applications.
Retail Availability Smileys will be available at Costco, Walmart, and Publix from November through April.
The onions are positioned as a limited seasonal offering.
Why It Matters
For operators and retailers, tearless onions reduce prep-line irritation while offering a distinct flavor profile that differentiates from standard yellow or sweet varieties. The emphasis on structure retention during cooking makes them particularly valuable for high-volume kitchens where consistency matters.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
