Can You Eat Sprouted Onions?

I use onions in my cooking almost every day, so I always have a few sitting in my pantry. Occasionally, I’ll reach for one and notice bright green shoots emerging from the top. At first, I wasn’t sure if this meant the onion had gone bad or if it was still safe to use. I called my dad—who knows a thing or two about farming—and he laughed. “It’s just trying to grow,” he said. “But that doesn’t mean it’s gone bad.” That conversation sparked my curiosity, and ever since, I’ve been fascinated by whether sprouted onions are still good to eat and how best to use them.

Are Sprouted Onions Safe to Eat?

Yes, in most cases, sprouted onions are perfectly safe to eat. The bulb itself might be a little softer than a fresh onion, but if there’s no mold or rot, it’s still good. The sprouts themselves are also edible, though they can be slightly bitter. I usually taste a piece before deciding whether to keep or discard them.

How Does Sprouting Affect the Onion’s Taste?

I’ve noticed that sprouted onions can develop a sharper, more intense flavor. The texture of the bulb can also change, becoming slightly rubbery. While this might not be ideal for fresh salads, it works just fine for cooking. I often chop sprouted onions for soups, stews, and sautés, where their stronger taste blends right in.

What Can You Do with Sprouted Onions?

If the sprouts are tender and mild, I like to use them as a garnish—think green onion tops with a bit more bite. If the onion itself is still firm, I cook with it just as I would a regular onion. But if the bulb has become too soft or started to rot, it’s time to compost it or, better yet, plant it and grow a new onion.

How Can You Tell If an Onion Is Bad?

A sprouted onion isn’t necessarily a bad onion, but there are a few clear signs that it’s time to toss it. If the onion feels excessively soft or mushy, has dark spots or mold, or gives off a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s no longer good to eat. The outer layers may become slimy, and in extreme cases, the entire onion may collapse when you squeeze it. A fresh onion should feel firm and dry, with crisp, papery skin. If only the outer layers seem affected, you can try peeling them away to see if the inside is still usable.

How to Store Onions

Proper storage can help keep onions fresh for weeks—or even months. The key is to store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, such as a pantry or a mesh basket. Avoid plastic bags, as they trap moisture and speed up spoilage. Whole onions should never be kept in the refrigerator, as the cold, humid environment can cause them to soften more quickly. However, once an onion is cut, it should be wrapped tightly and stored in the fridge, preferably in an airtight container, to keep it fresh for a few days.

Can You Grow New Onions from Sprouted Ones?

Absolutely! If you’ve got a sprouted onion, you’re already halfway to growing your own. I like to cut the onion so that the sprouted part has some of the root end attached, then plant it in soil. With enough water and sunlight, the sprouts will develop into fresh onion greens, and sometimes even a whole new bulb. It’s a simple, no-waste way to make use of onions that might otherwise get thrown out.

Final Thoughts

So, can you eat sprouted onions? Yes, as long as they’re still firm and free of mold. The sprouts are edible, the bulb is still usable for cooking, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even plant them for a new crop. Next time you find a sprouted onion in your pantry, don’t be so quick to toss it—there’s still plenty of life left in it! Want to learn more about food storage and creative ways to use your ingredients? Check out our other kitchen tips and follow us on social media for more!