Storing onions and garlic in a paper bag can extend their freshness by up to three months, according to a cooking expert. This simple method helps prevent the common problem of these kitchen staples turning mouldy or sprouting prematurely.
Why onions and garlic spoil
Most British households are wasting their onions, with 170,000 thrown out every day simply because they are kept in the wrong place. Storing them next to other vegetables, in the fridge, or in plastic containers causes them to rot. Onions and garlic bulbs contain a lot of water but have only a paper-thin skin for protection, so any humidity in a kitchen will cause them to spoil quickly.
The paper bag method
Monica Matheny, a cook and founder of The Yummy Life, recommends using a paper bag. She learned this trick from her mother and was initially sceptical, but after trying it, she confirmed that her garlic and onions remained “fresh and firm” after three months inside a paper bag.
She said: “Lesson learned: always listen to your mother. Apparently, the punched paper bags allow just enough air circulation to preserve these veggies for an extended period of time. Who knew?”
How it works
Paper bags are made of porous material, which allows more air to circulate and helps any water evaporate quickly. Onions and garlic contain so much moisture that they often start to leak slowly, but the amount is usually not enough to be noticeable. In a humid environment like a fridge or plastic container, all the water builds up and causes rot. A paper bag keeps the storage area as dry as possible, helping the vegetables last longer.
Step-by-step guide
To begin, you will need a hole puncher and a paper bag that is easy to fold, such as a brown paper bag or any medium-sized bag from most supermarkets. Fold the bag lengthwise and punch along one edge until the bag has multiple holes around the sides. This allows more air into the bag to keep the vegetables dry.
Next, fill the bag with onions and garlic until it is halfway full. You can then scrunch up the top or use a paper clip to close the bag. Store the bag in a dark area of your kitchen, such as a cupboard, drawer, or pantry. Onions and garlic are very sensitive to sunlight, which can cause them to sprout, so do not leave them on a shelf or counter.
Storage tips
Make sure they are stored at room temperature and there is some space for airflow. Avoid keeping onions and garlic right next to other vegetables, and make sure there are no potatoes nearby, as they release too much moisture into the air. Onions and garlic should last up to three months when stored properly, and garlic can sometimes even last up to six months. Storing them properly is one of the easiest ways to cut down on food waste and save money on your food shop.
