Aussies divided by ‘unique’ new $2.50 veggie at Woolworths

The supermarket giant launched a “unique” new product in stores – but while some have called the $2.50 item “magic”, others aren’t convinced.

Australians are divided over a “magic” new grocery item that has just hit Woolworths shelves.

The supermarket giant recently released Australia’s first crop of the “tearless” onions, aptly named “Happy Chop”, which are available in stores across NSW, Victoria and the ACT for a limited time.

The “unique” vegetable has undergone decades of scientific adaptation using natural cross-breeding of existing varieties – and the result is a new breed that is less likely to make you cry when cut.

Aussies have since begun snagging the $2.50 product at local Woolworths stores, with many raving about the onions, labelling the buy “magical”.

“Crying with joy about this,” one wrote on TikTok.

“Woah, so cool.” another stated.

One even declared: “I’m never buying the normal ones again”.

Woolworths recently launched ‘tearless onions’ in select stores. Picture: TikTok/@adrianwidjy

But while some described the ‘innovation’ as ‘magical’ – others were unconvinced. Picture: TikTok/Woolworths

However, many shoppers were unsure of the new onion, questioning whether or not the modified veggie was safe for consumption.

“Mmmm more chemicals in our produce,” one wrote online.

“Wouldn’t buy it. Modifying nature,” another lamented.

“If they don’t do what an onion is supposed to, it’s not an onion,” someone else claimed.

As one added: “Will be the most tasteless onion ever.”

The “incredible” vegetable variety first launched overseas two years ago, with Woolworths stating it was created using “natural methods”.

“These Happy Chop – Tearless Onions stand out as a unique innovation in Australian produce,” said Paul Turner, the supermarket’s general manager of fruit and veg.

“Onions are a household staple and this is a great option for many people who end up in tears when preparing onions.

“We’re excited to bring this incredible variety to our customers to take the tears out of meal prep.”

‘Wouldn’t buy it.’ Picture: TikTok/Woolworths

Woolworths said the new vegetable variety was produced using ‘natural methods’. Picture: TikTok/Woolworths

The reason onions make us cry is all down to a natural self-defence mechanism, which sees the vegetable release a combination of natural chemicals and enzymes – also known as “volatile compounds” – when cut.

This can aggravate eyes, often sparking tears which humans release in a bid to wash away the irritant.

Happy Chop contain fewer of these compounds, which continue to reduce after they are harvested, compared to regular onions where these compounds increase over time, Woolworths explained.

It is also said to be a good alternative for those that find the vegetable too pungent, as it produces a slightly sweeter taste than regular brown onions.