Produce
Whole, Raw

OnionShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.gov

Pantry

1 to 3 months

Store whole, unpeeled onions in a cool, dry, dark, and well-ventilated place (e.g., pantry, basement). Do not store with potatoes, as they release moisture and gases that can cause spoilage.

Refrigerator

Not Recommended

Not recommended for whole, unpeeled onions

Refrigeration can soften whole, unpeeled onions and reduce their shelf life. Store peeled or cut raw onions in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 7-10 days.

Freezer

10-12 months

Chop onions before freezing. Blanching is not necessary. Store in airtight freezer bags or containers.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Soft spots or mushy texture
  • Dark patches or mold growth
  • Strong, unpleasant odor
  • Excessive sprouting (while not unsafe, indicates loss of quality)

Room Temperature Safety

2-hour rule (1 hour above 90°F/32°C)

40°F–140°F

Perishable foods, including peeled or cut onions, should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), this time reduces to 1 hour.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw onions.

2

Prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw onions and other foods, especially ready-to-eat items.

3

Promptly refrigerate any peeled or cut onions in a sealed container.

4

Discard any onions that show signs of spoilage.

Related Items

Comparisons

Garlic (whole, unpeeled)
Pantry
3-6 months (in a cool, dry, dark place)
Potatoes (whole)
Pantry
1-2 months (in a cool, dark, dry place)
Cut Raw Onions
Fridge
7-10 days
Cooked OnionsCooked onions should be refrigerated promptly.
Fridge
3-4 days