Keep onions fresh for up to 6 months in one household spot

Onions are a kitchen essential across Britain, enhancing the taste of numerous meals. They serve as the foundation for many recipes, providing richness, natural sweetness and flavour with minimal fuss.

However, despite being so adaptable, understanding the best way to store them can significantly affect their longevity. Keep them in the wrong place, and they can rapidly turn mushy, develop mould or become unusable.

Fortunately, a few straightforward adjustments to their storage location and method can help prolong their freshness.

According to specialists at Wheeldon Brothers, the "worst" possible location for storing onions is the fridge.

They explained: "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," reports the Express.

Why refrigeration isn't suitable

While pre-chopped and peeled onions belong in the fridge, whole intact onions do not. Dampness and inadequate air circulation in a refrigerator drawer can result in sogginess, mould growth, and premature sprouting.

The specialists continued: "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."

Proper onion storage methods

For extended preservation, and to maintain freshness for "six months", onions ought to be stored in a dark, moisture-free area with ample air circulation, such as a cellar, larder or garage.

The specialists explained: "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 kitchen surface or inside a cupboard works fine if you're planning to use them within a couple of days. However, for longer periods, temperature control and proper ventilation become important factors.

Keep onions away from potatoes

One frequently missed piece of advice is to store onions well clear of potatoes. When kept together, onions release gases and moisture that make potatoes sprout and deteriorate much faster.

The specialists pointed out: "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 optimal results, keep onions in breathable bags and store them away from moisture-sensitive produce.