Expiration & Storage Tips
When does red onion expire?
Unopened and stored in pantry: about 2 to 3 months. If stored in the refrigerator, they can last up to 8 months. Once it has been cut, it should be eaten within 7 to 10 days if refrigerated. Date on package: N/A as onions are typically not sold with an expiration date. Frozen chunks of red onion can last 6 to 8 months.
How do you tell if red onion is bad?
A bad onion can be recognized by its overly soft texture and sour, unpleasant smell. As they begin to go bad, onions may start to feel lightweight, appear darker in color, and develop a moldy, black consistency inside. Once cut, if the inner layers of the onion have turned a yellow or brownish color, or it gives off an unpleasant or sour odor, this is a sure sign it's spoiled.
Tips for storing red onion to extend shelf life
• Always store onions in a cool, dark place.
• If you're storing cut onions, make sure to store them in a sealed container to prevent the refrigerator from absorbing their strong odors.
• Avoid storing onions near potatoes or other fruits and vegetables as they can speed up the spoiling process.
• Consider storing onions in a mesh bag. This allows air circulation and helps to keep them fresh longer.
• If you use part of an onion, don't remove the skin from the rest before storing it. The outer layers of an onion keep it protected, which can lengthen its shelf life.