The Quick Gut Check Before You Chop
Before you cut, run the whole check in a few seconds. Look it over for spots and mold, press it to make sure it’s firm, then sniff near the root end for anything sour. Firm and sharp-smelling means you’re good to go.
FAQ
Is It Safe to Eat an Onion That Has Sprouted?
Yes. A sprouted onion is still safe to eat. The green shoot pulls energy from the bulb, so the onion may taste a little milder and feel softer, but it hasn’t gone bad. You can trim the sprout or use it like a green onion.
Can I Cut Off a Bad Spot and Use the Rest?
Often, yes. If there’s a small, isolated brown or wet spot and the surrounding flesh is firm and smells normal, cut generously around it and use the good part. If softness or off-smell runs through the onion, throw the whole thing out.
Do Onions Need to Go in the Fridge?
Whole raw onions do better in a cool, dark, dry, ventilated spot, not the fridge. Cut onions are the exception. Seal them and refrigerate them, and use them up within a few days.
How Long Do Onions Last Before They Go Bad?
Stored properly, whole onions keep for several weeks to a couple of months. Cut onions last 7–10 days when refrigerated in a tightly sealed container, with some sources extending to 14 days. The weekly check is your best friend here, since one spoiling onion shortens the life of the ones around it.
