Beware the hidden dangers of consuming bad onions
Onions are an essential ingredient in many dishes. When stored properly, they can last for months. However, sometimes changes on their surface can cause concern, and some of these changes can make the vegetable unsuitable for consumption.
Onions have many roles in cooking. They are the base of heartwarming French onion soup and are an addition to salads, stews, meats, and other dishes. They are available in stores all year round and are generally affordable. However, not all onions are suitable for eating. If you notice certain changes in the vegetable, it is best to discard it without hesitation.
Can you eat onion chives?
While sprouting potatoes are not pleasant to see, green chives on onions shouldn't cause any concern. Onion chives, much like garlic chives, are safe to consume. They are a healthy addition to scrambled eggs, sandwiches, or salads, providing a source of vitamin C, which enhances the body's immunity. They also contain vitamin A and beta-carotene, which help improve vision. The sulfur compounds in chives benefit the circulatory system.
Don't eat such onions
If you find a soft, mushy onion with signs of rot in your vegetable container, dispose of it immediately. Consuming such a vegetable can lead to serious health issues. Rotten onions are highly toxic and are absolutely not safe to eat.
The mould that develops on rotten onions produces mycotoxins, which are toxic chemical compounds. Mycotoxins can trigger various negative health effects, ranging from gastrointestinal problems to more severe organ damage. Rotten onions become an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and other pathogens, which can cause food poisoning.
Cutting it off is not enough
Although it may be tempting to just cut off the spoiled portion, it's better not to. This rule applies not only to onions but also to all other vegetables and fruits, including tomatoes. Why? The answer is simple: mould and bacteria that develop on spoiled products are not confined to just the visible part.
