Why You Should Never Store Potatoes and Onions Together

In the majority of kitchens, onion and potatoes can be found side-by-side in the kitchen as essential food items. It appears that they belong together and are often kept in the same bin or placed in a shared food storage container. But, research and storage research suggests that this practice may reduce the shelf lifespan of each. Although they are a great pair when cooking, they're very different in their storage needs.

The Science Behind the Separation

The primary reason that the reason onions and potatoes should not be kept together is the natural plant hormone known as Ethylene. Ethylene is a key factor in the maturing and ageing of fruit and vegetables. Onions can release ethylene gas when they get older, and this gas has the potential to affect nearby crops.


The potato is particularly vulnerable to exposure to ethylene. If they are stored in proximity to onions, they can begin sprouting sooner than anticipated. The sprouting indicates that the potato is coming from a state of dormancy. This alters the texture, taste as well as general quality. That which could last for months in a proper storage environment can be damaged much more quickly after exposure to the chemical ethylene.

In addition potatoes can contribute to the issue in a different manner. They are known to let out moisture particularly when they are stored inside poorly ventilated or enclosed space. Onions are a favorite in humid conditions, soak up this water, which makes them hard, damp, or susceptible to decomposition.

How Potatoes and Onions Affect Each Other

An effective way of understanding the relationship is to imagine onions and potatoes as interacting chemically via the air. Onions release ethylene and encourage the growth of potatoes, while the potatoes produce a moist micro-climate that onions don't like. The combination can cause spoilage to both.

It is essential to ensure the fact that keeping these vegetables in a container doesn't make them hazardous or toxic. It's not regarding toxicity, but rather durability and quality. If they are kept in close proximity, the things will degrade more quickly, leading to consumption and frequent replacements.

Why Shelf Life Drops So Quickly

Once the sprouting process begins and begin to sprout, their structure alters. They become less firm and have an unpleasant taste. In many instances the sprouted potatoes require trimming prior to use to reduce their usable amount. The exposure to ethylene speeds up the process and makes improper storage of the potatoes a costly error in the long run.

On their own, require a dry, airy atmosphere for them to remain fresh. If they are exposed to excessive water, they could turn muggy and grow mold. It is particularly likely when the vegetables are kept in sealed plastic bags, containers, or even cabinets with no airflow.

In households with a lot of activity, in which onions and potatoes are purchased in large quantities the issue is evident. Sharing storage spaces could be appealing, however it holds gases and moisture and creates the ideal conditions for rapid degradation.

What Research and Experts Say

There isn't a single well-known study that is devoted to the storage of onions and potatoes in a single container, the advice for keeping them apart is deeply rooted in postharvest research. The research in this area focuses on the management of ethylene along with humidity control and the physiological behaviour of food items following harvest.

Institutions like institutions like the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources in the United States have long provided research-based advice on how to store fruit and vegetables. The work they have done illustrates the importance of detaching Ethylene-producing food products from ethylene-sensitive ones for the freshness.

Similar to extension programs, the ones at The University of Idaho in the United States emphasize proper storage conditions for root vegetables. Their studies support the concept that factors in the environment such as temperature, airflow and humidity play an important impact on the preservation of quality.

Experts in the field of food and writing are also adamant about this. The explanations often emphasize how storage does not only involve maintaining coolness, but the ability to understand how chemical reactions affect them. This understanding helps to translate the principles of science into food preparation procedures.

The Best Way to Store Them

The answer is easy and efficient. It is recommended to store potatoes in a dark, cool and ventilated area. An open or a basket is ideal, since it lets air flow and helps prevent water accumulation. Onions in particular, must be stored in a dry, open place, preferring the form of a mesh bag, or even an individual basket.

Even in kitchens with smaller spaces with limited space having them separated into different containers could make a significant impact. The physical separation decreases the likelihood that gas builds up and also moisture transfer. It also helps the vegetable keep their freshness for a longer time.

A Small Change That Reduces Waste

Separating onions and potatoes might seem to be a minor thing, but it actually has an impact that is significant on the food preservation. When you understand how these veggies interplay, you will be able to extend the shelf-life of your food, preserve the flavor and minimize the amount of consumption.

The truth is that onions and potatoes are both incredibly resilient and adaptable food items, however they are not the best choice to share the same space for storage. Separating them is a straightforward, scientifically-proven method which results in fresher foods as well as a better kitchen.