All About Red onion
Your complete guide to red onion - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Red onion Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for red onion in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
whole in pantry1-3 months
Signs of Spoilage
Soft spots, mold growth (fuzzy white, blue, or green patches), sprouting green shoots, a strong, unpleasant sulfurous odor (beyond the usual onion pungency), or significant shriveling.
How to Check
Visually inspect for any discoloration, mold, or sprouts. Gently squeeze the onion to check for soft, mushy areas. Smell for any off or rotten odors. A healthy onion should feel firm and have dry, papery skin.
Storage Tips
Store in a mesh bag, basket, or open bowl to allow for air circulation. Avoid storing near potatoes, as they release ethylene gas which can accelerate spoilage in onions. Keep away from direct sunlight and high humidity.
cut in fridge7-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Slimy texture, dull or discolored appearance (darker red/purple, grayish), dried-out edges, strong and unpleasant sour or sulfurous odor, or visible mold.
How to Check
Visually inspect for sliminess, discoloration, or mold. Touch the onion to feel for a slick or slimy film. Smell for any sour, rotten, or unusually pungent off-odors. A fresh cut onion should still have a crisp texture and a clean, sharp onion smell.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container or a tightly sealed zip-top bag. This prevents the onion's strong odor from permeating other foods in the fridge and helps maintain its moisture and freshness.
cooked in fridge3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour or off-odor, visible mold, slimy texture, significant color change (darker, duller, or unusual hues), or an overly mushy texture.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or unusual discoloration. Smell for any sour or unpleasant odors. Touch to check for sliminess. Cooked onions should retain some texture and their characteristic aroma.
Storage Tips
Cool cooked onions completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
cooked in freezer3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive freezer burn (dry, discolored patches), large ice crystals (indicating thawing and refreezing), or an off-odor once thawed.
How to Check
Visually inspect for signs of freezer burn. While safe to eat, freezer-burned onions will have a degraded texture and flavor. Upon thawing, check for any unusual smells.
Storage Tips
Cooked onions freeze well, though their texture will be softer upon thawing. Freeze in airtight freezer bags or containers. Portion them out before freezing for convenience. Label with the date of freezing.