Content and Composition of Dry Matter in Onion (Allium cepa L.) as Influenced by Developmental Stage at Time of Harvest and Long-term Storage

Some of the chemical changes inside the bulb of onions (Allium cepa L.) and the influence of various harvesting criteria on dry matter content and composition were studied during long-term storage. Onion weight, dry matter content, total N and the non-structural carbohydrates, glucose, fructose, sucrose and total fructans were examined. Significant (P<0.05) interseasonal differences were observed in the weight of the onions, dry matter content, glucose and total non-structural carbohydrates. Furthermore, the dry matter content and composition differed inside the onion bulbs depending on the length of the storage period. The stage of maturation at the time of harvest also significantly influenced the weight of the onions, the dry matter content in individual onions and the fructose content.