logo
Don't store onions in fridge says expert who has shared 'correct' way

Don't store onions in fridge says expert who has shared 'correct' way

Daily Record13-05-2025

Onions can actually last up to six months if stored correctly - and it's a very simple fix.
It's one of the most common household ingredients that adds to numerous classic dishes. From a hearty plate of Spaghetti Bolognese to the home comforts of a curry, onions can deliver a much-needed dimension.
Onions can easily last up to six months if they are stored correctly. However, the problem is that many people are unaware to store them properly, which can lead to speeding up the spoiling process of this vegetable.

Experts have issued a warning against storing onions in the fridge as reported by the Express, despite many of us naturally doing so, as the cold and humid environment triggers the conversion of starch into sugar, resulting in soggy and soft onions over time.

It is instead recommended that onions are stored in a dark, cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. While a kitchen cupboard may seem ideal, it's essential to ensure it's not near the oven.
This is because fluctuating temperatures can create a warm and moist environment, leading to the same spoilage issue as the fridge. For this reason, a cupboard far from the oven is the best choice.
However, the prime location for onion storage is either in a garage or cellar if that's an option for you. In addition to finding a cool, dry spot, onions should be protected from direct sunlight, as the resulting heat can stimulate mould growth.
But it's not just where you store your onions, but how. If you buy onions from a supermarket wrapped in a plastic bag, it's crucial to discard this before storing them.
The experts at Shop Food Waste shared their best advice and top tips. They said: "Never keep these items in sealed plastic as it will quickly cause spoilage." Plastic bags trap moisture, promoting mould growth.

Instead, you should "keep onions and garlic in a basket or paper bag where air can circulate". When properly stored, "onions and garlic can last up to three to six months".
You should opt for a net or mesh bag when storing your onions, as it beats plastic any day by promoting essential airflow. No net bag? Not the end of the world.
You can grab an old pair of tights as a handy alternative, saving you costs and re-using garments at the same time. You simply just need to place the onions in one leg, tie a knot above them, and repeat until you have filled the tight's leg and you're good to go.

One key thing to remember is that onions should live a solitary life away from other produce when stored. They are notorious for soaking up moisture and could hasten decay among your fruits and veggies.
On top of that, their pungent scent tends to permeate neighbouring foods, leaving them tasting suspiciously oniony.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Shoppers buying UK supermarket eggs urged to look  for crucial salmonella sign
Shoppers buying UK supermarket eggs urged to look  for crucial salmonella sign

Daily Mirror

time6 hours ago

  • Daily Mirror

Shoppers buying UK supermarket eggs urged to look for crucial salmonella sign

The British Lion mark is stamped on more than 90% of eggs sold in the UK and means they are part of the British Lion scheme, one of the most successful food safety programmes in the country Eggs are an essential part of the weekly shop, versatile enough for simple dishes like scrambled or fried eggs and elaborate creations such as soufflés, cakes, or desserts. Yet, consumers are being urged to look out for a tiny yet crucial detail on their eggs to prevent the threat of salmonella, especially if they are to be eaten raw or only lightly cooked. The trick lies in spotting the red British Lion mark, a symbol that is found on over 90% of eggs available across the UK. highlights that this emblem signifies involvement with the British Lion scheme, recognised as one of the country's top food safety programmes. ‌ Linked to the British Lion scheme, all the eggs come from hens inoculated against salmonella. Stringent safety protocols are adhered to throughout each step of production, from the farm right up to supermarket shelves, as mandated by the British Lion Code of Practice. ‌ This code confirms traceability and assures hygiene and safety at every point of the process. Since the inception of the programme in 1998, sales of over 200 billion British Lion eggs have occurred, leading to a "drastically reduced" occurrence of salmonella within UK eggs, reports the Express. Food Standards Scotland provides assurance that it is safe for sensitive demographics such as small children, expectant mothers, and the elderly to consume raw or semi-cooked hen eggs, but this is contingent upon the eggs bearing the British Lion stamp or being sourced from the Laid in Britain scheme. The agency's website states: "People in these groups can eat raw or lightly cooked UK hen eggs or foods containing them as long as the eggs are produced under the Lion Code with a British Lion mark or under the Laid in Britain egg assurance scheme." Such items include mayonnaise, soufflés and tiramisu. Nevertheless, if the eggs aren't covered by these schemes, or if there is any uncertainty, they must be cooked thoroughly, particularly for those at a higher risk. Additionally, Food Standards Scotland highlighted that eggs should never be consumed after their best before date, typically no more than 28 days from laying, due to the increased risk of bacterial growth. It's important to note that the British Lion quality mark applies solely to hen eggs; duck, goose, or quail eggs need thorough cooking to mitigate a greater salmonella risk. Customers can find British Lion eggs in leading supermarkets such as Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, and Waitrose.

Passengers in aeroplane window seats urged to do one thing before boarding
Passengers in aeroplane window seats urged to do one thing before boarding

Daily Mirror

timea day ago

  • Daily Mirror

Passengers in aeroplane window seats urged to do one thing before boarding

A dermatologist has weighed in on the viral TikTok video that suggested people in the window seat on a flight should be wearing sunscreen - here's what she had to say The coveted window seat on a plane is often the go-to for travellers, particularly during long-haul flights when a bit of shut-eye is on the cards. A TikTok user by the name of FindingFiona has recently sparked a conversation by suggesting that those who snag the window spot should slather on some sunscreen while in the air. ‌ Her advice comes off the back of reports indicating that people are more vulnerable to sun damage at higher altitudes. ‌ "Even though you're inside the aircraft, because of the high altitudes, you're actually experiencing stronger UV radiation, especially if you're in the window seat," she said in her video post. Dr Elizabeth Jones, an assistant professor of dermatology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia offered her point of view, reports the Express. While Dr Jones acknowledges that the "true risk" to infrequent flyers is likely minimal, she pointed out: "People who are flying occupationally, they're going to be exposed much more to ultraviolet light given - especially if they're in the cockpit - the size of the windshield." She also noted that airplane windows are designed to "block out most of the UVB rays", which are one type of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) emissions. These particular rays fall into the medium wavelength category, nestled between the longer UVA and shorter UVC rays. ‌ It's these UVB rays that are chiefly to blame for sunburn and have the potential to harm skin cell DNA, thereby heightening the risk of skin cancer. Dr Jones has warned that aeroplane windows don't fully block out UVA rays, which can cause premature ageing, wrinkles, and potentially even skin cancer. As Yahoo! Life reports, she explained: "Some of the older windows block out about 50% of UVA rays and some of the newer models are more effective at even blocking out UVA." ‌ The Cleveland Clinic highlights that UVA light is primarily linked to long-term skin damage like wrinkles, and may contribute to certain types of skin cancer. It's advised to wear sunscreen on a plane as it can shield you from these harmful rays, which another skin specialist says can penetrate "more deeply into the skin". Furthermore, a dermatologist from U.S. Dermatology Partners Tyler in Texas cautions that exposure to these rays can put travellers at risk of developing various forms of skin cancer, including melanoma. ‌ Certified dermatologist Dr Danny Guo emphasises that UV levels at high altitudes are significantly stronger than on the ground. As reported by Conde Nast Traveller, he stated: "There is a 2% increase in UV radiation per 1,000 feet increase in altitude. "Given that the average flight is around 30,000 to 40,000 feet in altitude, this is a 60-80% increase in UV radiation levels compared to the ground". Dr Mamina Turegano added that repeated skin damage accelerates signs of skin ageing, such as hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and wrinkles. ‌ She pointed out a 2019 meta-analysis that discovered airline pilots and cabin crew are approximately twice as likely to develop melanoma and other skin cancers, compared to the general population. However, it's crucial to remember that most of this evidence was collected several decades ago, and its relevance to current risk levels is unclear. In conclusion, if you find yourself next to a window on a long-haul daytime flight, it's wise to apply some sunscreen. On the other hand, if you're in an aisle or middle seat away from direct sunlight, it's less essential but still not detrimental. ‌ Pondering over which sun protection factor (SPF) to opt for? The NHS recommends not solely relying on sunscreen for sun protection. It's also important to consider appropriate clothing and seek shade during the sun's peak hours. When selecting a sunscreen, ensure the packaging includes: a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against UVB at least 4-star UVA protection Also, always check that the sunscreen hasn't expired.

Body coach Joe Wicks' 'simple and healthy' breakfast muffins
Body coach Joe Wicks' 'simple and healthy' breakfast muffins

Daily Mirror

timea day ago

  • Daily Mirror

Body coach Joe Wicks' 'simple and healthy' breakfast muffins

The 39-year-old said his simple morning dish takes only 20 minutes to make - here's everything you need to know Joe Wicks has shared a delicious breakfast recipe with fans —and it's surprisingly quick and easy to make. The 39-year-old body coach said his dish tastes good either hot or cold and could even be popped in a lunchbox. "Quick, easy, simple and healthy," he wrote in a recent Instagram post. "But don't do what I did and overegg it. They will rise & they will get ya. These tomato, spinach and mozzarella breakfast muffins taste amazing. ‌ "I baked them for 20 mins at 180°C. They taste so good hot or cold in a lunch box too." For anyone keen to give Joe's dish a try, he recommended grabbing the following ingredients: ‌ Six eggs A handful of fresh chopped spinach Some sliced baby tomatoes Some fresh basil Mozzarella cheese Sprinkle of salt and pepper To start his recipe, Joe first whisked six eggs in a bowl before adding a handful of chopped spinach, sliced baby tomatoes, and fresh basil. He then mixed in some delicious Italian mozzarella, with a touch of salt and pepper for flavouring. In a video tutorial, he added: "Lightly grease some muffin tins with some oil or a bit of butter, fill them up [and] put them in the oven." Joe baked his egg muffins for around 20 minutes at 180°C. Though they may not have looked as beautiful as he hoped, he stressed that the taste was 'amazing'. "There you go, that is delicious, simple, homemade tomato, spinach and mozzarella breakfast muffins," he said. "They taste very hot - obviously out of the oven - but they are also really yummy wrapped up in a lunch box, eaten later on in the day. So, yeah, win. Enjoy." ‌ Besides their delicious taste, Joe's breakfast muffins include several healthy ingredients, too. Spinach is an especially renowned nutrient powerhouse, lauded for its potential blood sugar perks. Helen Bell, a nutritional expert at Help & Advice, previously told the Express: "Spinach is indeed known for its potential benefits in managing high blood pressure. ‌ "It is rich in nitrates, which can help dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. I have often recommended incorporating spinach into diets for individuals looking to manage their blood pressure naturally. "Aside from this, spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Its antioxidant properties make it beneficial for overall health and well-being." Meanwhile, eggs also boast a hefty amount of protein and may even benefit anyone on a weight loss diet. In a separate conversation, Helen added: "In my experience, consuming eggs as a snack can actually be quite beneficial for weight loss. Eggs are high in protein, which helps to increase satiety and keep you feeling fuller for longer. "This can reduce the overall calorie intake throughout the day. But, it's important to watch portion sizes and prepare them in a healthy way, like boiling or poaching, to avoid adding unnecessary fats."

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store