How Long Do Onions Last in the Fridge?
Written by Jordan Morley · Storage times from the USDA FoodKeeper database · Last updated 28 October 2026
Onions keep for 2 months in a fridge running at 0–5°C.
Storage tips for onions
- Fridge at 0–5°C. A fridge thermometer is the cheapest food-safety upgrade — many home fridges run warmer than their dial suggests.
You can also check the calorie content of onions alongside their safety information. Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
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Store it properly
Fridge thermometer
These storage times assume 0–5°C — check what your fridge actually runs at.
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Get Canada Pet Care →Onions next to similar foods
| Food | Fridge time |
|---|---|
| Carrots | 2–3 weeks |
| Fresh Coconuts | 2–3 weeks |
| Apples | 4–6 weeks |
| Cranberries | 2 months |
| Onions | 2 months |
Of the 35 fruit and vegetable foods with a fridge time in this guide, onions keep for longer than 31, the same time as 1 and less time than 2.
Onions: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In the freezer | Yes — freezes well (best quality for 10–12 months) |
Common questions
How long do onions last in the fridge?
2 months in a fridge running at 0–5°C (USDA FoodKeeper guidance). After that, quality and safety both start to slip, and because the bacteria that cause food poisoning are invisible, ‘it seems fine’ is not a reliable test. When in doubt, throw it out.
How can I tell if onions have gone off?
Sliminess, mushy patches, mould and a sour or fermented smell are the usual signs; cut away a small bruise but discard anything mouldy or slimy. Do not rely on this alone: the time guideline matters even when everything looks fine.
Can I freeze onions to keep them longer?
Yes. For best quality, freeze them for around 10–12 months; they stay safe beyond that because freezing halts bacterial growth, and only texture and flavour decline.
Can I keep onions out of the fridge?
Yes, for a short time only: around 1 month in the cupboard or at room temperature.
Related answers
Primary source: USDA FoodKeeper.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.