Stop storing onions in the fridge as 1 better location keeps them fresh for '6 months'
Proper onion storage can keep them fresh for up to six months, according to experts.
“Storing onions next to potatoes is a classic error. They both emit compounds that accelerate the other's spoilage. Garlic, however, makes a good storage neighbour. It thrives in the same environment.”
Onions are a kitchen essential across Britain, bringing flavour to countless dishes. They serve as the foundation for numerous recipes, providing depth, sweetness and taste with minimal fuss.
However, despite their widespread use, understanding how to preserve them properly can significantly affect their longevity.
Store them wrongly, and they can rapidly turn soft, develop mould or become unusable. Fortunately, a few straightforward adjustments to their storage location and method can help prolong their freshness.
According to the specialists at Wheeldon Brothers, the "worst" possible location to keep onions is the fridge.
They said: "Onions absorb moisture very easily, and storing them in the fridge can cause them to soften, rot, or sprout much more quickly. They're best kept somewhere cool, dry and well-ventilated."
Why the fridge is the wrong choice
While pre-chopped and peeled onions ought to be refrigerated, whole uncut onions should not.
Moisture and inadequate airflow in a fridge drawer can result in sogginess, mould growth, and premature sprouting.
The specialists added: "The most common mistake we see is people storing their onions in the vegetable drawer. It's far too humid. Onions need dry air, not damp conditions."
Where to store onions properly
For extended storage, and to maintain freshness for "six months", onions should be kept in a dark, dry spot with ample ventilation, such as a cellar, pantry or garage.
The experts said: "Good airflow is essential. A mesh or netted bag works brilliantly as it allows onions to breathe and reduces moisture build-up. You also want to keep them out of direct sunlight, which can cause them to spoil faster."
Keeping them on a worktop or in a cupboard is perfectly adequate for short-term storage if they are to be used within a day or two. However, for anything beyond that, temperature and air circulation become increasingly important.
Avoid storing onions with potatoes
One frequently overlooked piece of advice is to keep onions well away from potatoes. When the two are stored in close proximity, onions release gases and moisture that cause potatoes to sprout and deteriorate far more rapidly.
The experts noted: "Storing onions next to potatoes is a classic error. They both emit compounds that accelerate the other's spoilage. Garlic, however, makes a good storage neighbour. It thrives in the same environment."
For optimum results, onions should be stored in breathable bags and kept apart from produce that is sensitive to moisture.