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Greenhouse set-up during Experiments. 1, 2, and 3, and an image of onion juice concentrate. |
Dallas, TX - Exciting new research from Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center reveals that onion peel waste, a common byproduct of food processing, can be repurposed as an effective agricultural product to enhance vegetable crop growth.
The onion processing industry produces hundreds of thousands of tons of onion waste annually. Normally, onion peel waste is dumped in landfills, which creates additional sources of greenhouse gases. Research has validated that onion peel is a concentrated source of bioactive compounds; therefore, it can be turned into useful agricultural products such as soil amendments and possibly biostimulants to support crop development while reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
By converting this food industry byproduct into a valuable agricultural input, the research highlights a dual benefit: promoting sustainable farming practices and reducing organic waste. Initial trials showed significant improvements in vegetable crop growth when the onion peel waste was applied, paving the way for broader adoption in agricultural systems.
This innovative approach aligns with the principles of circular agriculture, offering a practical solution to reduce waste, protect the environment, and enhance food production.
Dr. Niu is a professor of urban agriculture at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Dallas and in the Department of Horticultural Sciences. Her areas of expertise are in controlled environment agriculture, indoor vertical farming and plant stress physiology.
The full story can be found on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI17694-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
