You can tell an onion has gone bad by its physical appearance, texture, and smell. It's usually quite obvious.
Signs of a Bad Onion:
Here's a breakdown of what to look for:
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Smell: A rotten onion will have a strong, unpleasant, and often sour or moldy odor. This is a major indicator.
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Texture:
- Squishy or Soft: A fresh onion should be firm. If it's soft, squishy, or has soft spots, it's likely gone bad.
- Sprouted: While sprouting doesn't necessarily mean the entire onion is inedible, it's a sign the onion is past its prime. You can often still use the onion by cutting away the sprout and any discolored areas, but if the sprout is large, the onion may be bitter.
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Appearance:
- Discoloration: Look for dark brown or black spots on the onion itself. Mold growth is also a clear sign of spoilage.
- Wet Spots: Excessive moisture or wet spots on the onion can indicate rot.
What to Do With a Bad Onion
If you notice any of the above signs, it's best to discard the entire onion. Don't try to salvage parts of it, as the spoilage could have spread throughout.
Preventing Onions from Going Bad
- Proper Storage: Store onions in a cool, dry, and dark place with good ventilation. Mesh bags or open baskets are ideal.
- Keep Away from Potatoes: Don't store onions near potatoes, as they release moisture and gases that can cause each other to spoil faster.
- Whole vs. Cut: Whole onions will last longer than cut onions. Store cut onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
