Sunion, the onion “that does not make you cry”, arrives in France

There are those who place a match between their teeth, others who wear swimming goggles, or even those who put the vegetable in the freezer for a few minutes before cutting it. Despite all these grandma’s tricks, it’s hard not to cry when you peel an onion. It was without counting the union (pronounced seunione, in the American style), a newcomer to the market who intends to remove this “consumer brake number 1”. After a first “successful test” at the beginning of 2022 in France, this yellow onion has landed since the end of last year on the shelves of two major supermarket chains (Carrefour and Grand Frais).

So, what is the secret of this bulb to avoid itchy eyes and runny nose? “It took thirty years of conventional breeding research to develop this onion”, reports David Corré, head of BASF France, who assures that these seeds are not the result of genetic manipulation but of natural crossbreeding. . What the American researchers have sought to avoid is this acid emanation which is released on cutting in the form of a volatile gas, which comes irritate our eyes. “Different varieties were put side by side so that they reproduced, until they found the right formula that didn’t make you cry,” continues David Corré. And it works, for 96% of people surveyed. »

Sharp marketing

Recently awarded a prize at Sival, the international exhibition of plant production techniques in Angers, Sunion also stands out for its sharp marketing, while other species such as the Cévennes onion are also sometimes renowned for their ability to save our eyes. But on its flashy green label, the slogan “No more crying” is not the only argument. “It’s sweet and tasty. Its taste is less pungent, a little sweeter, which allows it to be eaten raw or cooked”, assures David Corré, who recommends crunching onion slices as an aperitif, with a simple drizzle of oil. of olives.

So many advantages (but no organic certification) which could however make you cry once you arrive at the checkout (recommended price: €2.50 for 500 grams). Already adopted in the United States and Spain, the Sunion now hopes to convince consumers in Great Britain and Italy. In France, more than 400 tonnes of this seasonal product, grown in Auvergne, Drôme and Beauce, are available on the shelves this year until April.

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