Hokkaido onion harvest sees bumper crop and price drop

Hokkaido is experiencing a bumper crop of onions in 2026, following a period of low yields in 2025 caused by high summer temperatures. Due to favorable temperature fluctuations between day and night and adequate rainfall, onion quality and quantity are reported to be at peak levels.

Data from the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market indicates that onion prices have decreased by approximately 20% compared to 2025 due to the surplus. Farmers, such as Daisuke Kumaki, report that the harvest is so abundant that storage containers have become insufficient.

Nutrition experts suggest that to maximize the intake of quercetin, a health-promoting nutrient found in onions, consumers should avoid rinsing sliced onions in water. Instead, letting them sit in the air or using microwave heating is recommended to prevent nutrient loss. Local agricultural groups also suggest freezing onions with their skins on as an effective method for long-term storage during this surplus period.