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Why Raw Green Onions Can Carry Hidden Risks—and How to Eat Them Safely

Subtitle: Oh, my dear friend, this is such an important topic! You know, I was just chopping up a beautiful bunch of green onions the other day for my 3-Ingredient Avocado & White Bean Smash, and it made me pause.


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Let me tell you about the first time I learned about the risks of raw green onions.

I was in my late forties, and I was preparing a salad. I added some raw green onions. I didn’t think much of it. But then I read about an outbreak of foodborne illness linked to green onions. I was shocked.

I did some research, and I learned about the hidden risks.

The Hidden Risks

Contamination. Green onions can be contaminated with bacteria.


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Bacteria. They can carry Salmonella, E. coli, and Hepatitis A.

The source. The contamination can come from the soil, the water, or the handling.

The risk. Eating them raw can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

Vulnerable populations. Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.

Why Raw Green Onions Are a Particular Risk

They are often eaten raw. They are not cooked.

Cooking & Recipes

They have a complex structure. They have multiple layers.

They are difficult to wash thoroughly. Bacteria can hide in the layers.

They can be cross-contaminated. They can be contaminated by other foods.

They are a common source of foodborne illness. They are a known source.

How to Eat Green Onions Safely

1. Wash Thoroughly  

 

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