Experts say that the black spots on onions are often caused by the fungus Aspergillus niger. This fungus produces mycotoxins, which can accumulate in the body and adversely affect the liver. If you eat onions infected with black mold repeatedly, your liver can be seriously damaged in the long term, according to the Times Of India.
A study published in the clinical journal Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders highlighted that onions can help control liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. On the contrary, moldy onions pose a risk to the liver, especially when used regularly.
Onions are well known to be good for the liver due to their high content of antioxidants and sulfur compounds.
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Why does onion have black layer?
The black layer on onions often appears when a fungus infects the onion during cultivation, harvesting or storage. Aspergillus niger thrives in hot, humid environments, easily attacking the outer skin and gradually spreading inside. Storing onions in poorly ventilated, humid places or near potatoes also increases the risk of fungal infection.
Risk to the liver
Eating onions contaminated with mycotoxins, if repeated many times, this toxin will accumulate and put pressure on the liver, increasing the risk of liver failure or other diseases.
Not only mold, onions can also rot internally, called scale rot. According to experts at the Hyogo Prefecture Agricultural , Forestry and Fisheries Technology Center (Japan), the cause is bacteria in the soil penetrating through the onion stem, often occurring during unusual weather such as heavy rain. Initial symptoms may be difficult to detect, but when the disease is severe, the onion will ooze fluid from the stem. Although the slightly damaged part can be removed to eat, Japanese experts warn that if the rot spreads, it should be removed because bacteria and secondary microorganisms can develop, causing the risk of poisoning if eaten raw, according to the Mainichi newspaper (Japan).
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How to recognize onions infected with fungus
To protect the liver, pay attention to the following signs:
- Black streaks or mold appear on the outside or inside of the bulb.
- The onion fibers are soft, musty, and unusually sour.
- The onion flesh changes color.
If the above symptoms appear, the onion is no longer safe to use.
How to use onions safely
- Observe carefully before processing, immediately remove tubers with spreading black streaks.
- If there is only a thin layer of mold on the outer skin, you can peel off a few layers and use the rest.
- Store onions in a cool, dry place.
- Do not store onions with potatoes to avoid increased moisture.
- Always wash your hands and cutting board after handling moldy onions to avoid cross-contamination.
So, while onions are nutritious, they are still good for your liver if stored and used properly. But a black or moldy layer on the onion is a warning sign of toxic mold. To be safe, when in doubt, it is best to throw them away rather than risk your health.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/chuyen-gia-hanh-tay-co-dau-hieu-nay-ma-van-an-coi-chung-suy-gan-185250929090510385.htm
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