Health Tips: What is the Black Fungus on Onions and Why We Must Avoid Eating Them?

Onions are good for your health. But if we receive molded onions with black fugus on them, then we should be alert before using them. Do we have to eat such onions or not? Is it good for our health? Many of us are confused about this. But it might have a negative impact on our health. Let’s understand what precautions we should take.

Many a time the black fungus appears on onions and potatoes. We often use these vegetables for cooking. One may think that onions can be cleaned easily, which will remove the black dust, but will it be safer ahead or more helpful? Then the question remains the same.

Also Read

7 Reasons to Eat Greek Yogurt Before Going to Bed

What are the black marks? What causes them? 

According to some reports, it thrives on onion due to the humid weather outside. Those dust marks are a type of fungus called Aspergillus niger. It appears in charcoal color and spreads a layer on onions, making them look like a molded onion. Onions kept in damp or poorly ventilated areas are susceptible to this fungus, which develops as a result of improper storage. It can also happen when humidity accumulates within boxes or containers during transit. Some experts suggest that the layer could go deeper inside the onion layer, which could be bad to eat.

Should we eat it or not? 

The layer which has formed on the onion generally happens to be safe because it is not formed inside. It is an outer black fungus layer. The onion could be safe inside, but we need to recheck safely. As mentioned above, if the storage condition is bad, then it could go inside the onion. Some say that it is a possibility. The fugus, which is called aspergillus niger, can produce toxins. It could be harmful. You can have allergies.

How to take precautions? 

• Keep the onions inside a good ventilated space.
• Don’t store them with potatoes. Moisture released by the potatoes can thrive on onions.
• Do not use plastic bags.

(Disclaimer: Given the input is on an information basis, please seek professional advice.)