G&R Farms, a third-generation Vidalia and Peruvian sweet onion grower based in southeast Georgia, has been named a 2025 Sustainability in the Food Industry Award winner, recognizing the company’s leadership in precision agriculture, resource conservation and responsible farming innovation.

The award honors companies driving measurable environmental progress across the food supply chain — a commitment company leaders say has long defined G&R Farms.

“Sustainability isn’t a program for us; it’s a responsibility,” said Blake Dasher, CEO of G&R Farms. “Every decision we make reflects our belief that great farming protects both people and the land. This award affirms the work our team puts in every day to make a difference.”

G&R Farms earned the recognition through initiatives that reduced planted acreage by 160 acres while increasing planting density by 20 percent, saving more than 21 million gallons of water and cutting fertilizer use by 15 percent through precision application. The changes improved quality and increased yields while significantly reducing environmental impact.

“We’re proving that smarter farming leads to higher-quality onions and a healthier environment,” said Cliff Riner, vice president of agricultural production and grower relations. “We’ve drastically cut our fertilizer rates and are still evaluating further reductions. We’re setting new standards for what sustainable sweet onion production can look like.”

Riner added that land stewardship is central to the company’s approach. “Our company has been blessed with access to extremely valuable land that needs to be protected. The more we emphasize crop rotation, cover crops and biodiversity, the better our onions become when it’s time to rotate. The land and soil are our most valuable resources.”

The award comes during G&R Farms’ 80th anniversary year, which the company marked with a celebration honoring employees and its longstanding family values.

“Our success has always been rooted in people,” Dasher said. “Eighty years in, we’re more committed than ever to carrying that legacy forward.”

The 2025 Vidalia season also delivered strong results. Despite challenges from the 2024 hurricane season, proactive planning and carefully timed replanting helped ensure strong quality and consistent volume throughout the season.

The year marked the 10th anniversary of Growing America’s Farmers, the company’s flagship charitable program supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders through grants and scholarships. More than $35,000 was raised through retail promotions during the 2025 Vidalia season, bringing the program’s total impact to nearly $500,000 since its launch.

“Our partners and customers care deeply about the next generation of growers, and this program reflects that shared commitment,” said Steven Shuman, general manager and vice president of sales. “When retailers lean in with us, we’re able to make a real difference for students nationwide.”

Rounding out 2025, the company’s Peruvian sweet onion crop has delivered consistent sweetness, texture and appearance, supported by close collaboration between domestic and international teams. Ample supply is supporting both retail and club customers during the holiday season.

Looking ahead, G&R Farms said its focus remains on continued innovation and responsible farming practices to serve future generations.