How to Differentiate Between Fresh and Aged Onions Before Buying?

How to Differentiate Between Fresh and Aged Onions Before Buying?, updated 5/26/25, 1:02 PM

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Learn how to differentiate between fresh and aged onions with simple tips to ensure you pick the best quality before buying.

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How to Differentiate Between
Fresh and Aged Onions Before
Buying?


India stands tall as one of the world’s leading producers of onions, supplying these
versatile vegetables to countries around the globe. With multiple states growing a wide
variety, onion exporters from India cater to diverse culinary and industrial demands. But
before you import onions from India, it’s crucial to ensure they’re fresh—not aged.
Wondering how to tell? Here are a few simple signs to help you spot fresh onions every
time!
Difference Between Old and Fresh Onions
Both fresh and cured onions have their culinary uses, but recognizing the signs of aging
will help you select the best onions for your needs.
1. Inspect the Onion’s Skin
If the outer skin is tight and papery, it indicates the onion’s freshness. The skin must
cling to the onion, and there should be no excessive flakes. On the contrary, aged
onions have flaky, loose skins, which are easy to remove. You will also notice dull skin
that indicates a loss of moisture.
2. Moisture on the Onion
You may touch the onion to determine its quality. Fresh onions do not release any
moisture. If an onion feels wet to the touch, it is a sign of rotting. The liquid on the outer
side is brown or clear.
3. Check if the Onion is Firm
The best onions are heavy and firm. You will find no soft spots on the body. But the
aged onions are slightly soft and have mushy areas. When you touch the onion, you will
feel a spongy texture. A hollow feeling indicates that the interior side has signs of
deterioration.
4. Find the Growth of Sprouts
There are no green shoots on the top of the fresh onions. Proper storage will prevent
sprouting for a number of weeks. But old onions show signs of sprouting. Still, these
onions are edible, although the taste is slightly bitter. Moreover, sprouted onions have a
bit of a rubbery texture.
5. Check the Roots
Long and wet roots with mold growth are a sign of aged onions. Sometimes, improper
storage leads to these problems with your onions. However, fresh onions have only
small, dry roots.
6. Dark Spots and Mold Issues
Quality onions have a dry surface without spots. If you have found black mold on the
onions, avoid buying them. In most cases, mold growth occurs when onions remain
stored in damp conditions.
7. Differences in the Smell
An earthy or neutral scent is the sign of fresh onions. They do not smell strong until you
have cut them. On the contrary, aging triggers fermentation and causes rot. You will feel
a sour odor from the bad onions.

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Are Aged Onions Always Bad?
Not every old onion is a rotten piece. Slightly dried skin does not mean the quality inside
the onion is bad. If the bulb is still firm and has no mold growth, consumers can use it
safely. But a hollow and spongy onion is not safe for consumption.
When to Use Aged Yet Quality Onions?
Sometimes, aged onions are available for export because they are used for various
purposes. For example, older pieces are used for preparing pickles. Aged onions
started softening, though they have no signs of spoilage.
Onion jam makers also import older onions to prepare savory products. Many
consumers buy onion jams to add taste to burgers and sandwiches.
You can contact the leading onion exporter in India to buy fresh or aged bulbs.
Partner With White Feather Export for Premium-quality Onions
White Feather Export is your trusted partner for premium-quality onions. Whether you
need fresh onions or powdered varieties, we ensure the highest quality in every batch
before sending them to international markets. Reach out to us today and experience
top-notch service and freshness in every order!