Checking Onions for Insects

Do onions need to be checked for insects?

Onions are usually clean. However, there are infrequent instances where infestation occurs. In those cases, infestation primarily occurs at the tips of the onion, or in its outer layers. The extent of insect infestation throughout the onion will depend upon the softness of the core. Therefore, it is advisable to cut off the onion tips. Peel off any loose skin or any loose layers of onion. Check that the rest of the onion is firm. Wash onion thoroughly. During the summer months it is recommended to peel off an extra layer.

The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt”l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.