Onions

Onions (Allium cepa) are bulbous root vegetables grown worldwide. They are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, known for their pungent flavour and aroma when raw, which sweetens and mellows upon cooking. Onions are cultivated from onion seeds or sets and are harvested when the bulbs are mature.

Onions are primarily used to impart flavour and aroma to a wide variety of savoury dishes, including soups, stews, sauces, curries, and roasted vegetables. They can also be caramelised to add sweetness and depth of flavour. Their versatility makes them a fundamental ingredient in both home cooking and commercial food production.

Onions are a common food ingredient and not regulated as a food additive in the UK. They are a source of various nutrients and phytochemicals. Some research suggests potential health benefits associated with the consumption of onions, though evidence can be mixed. Bodies such as the WHO have noted the general healthfulness of diets rich in vegetables, including onions.