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document updated 6 days ago, on Jan 9, 2026
What fruits and veggies are the most ethylene-producing? What are the most ethylene-sensitive?
Charts
StyleDegree
MinuteEarth
[▶video]
[chart, personal copy]
European Food Information Council (EUFIC)
another chart (PDF)
getfreshproduce
Medium-length lists
UC San Diego > Center for Community Health
Helpling.ae
(.ae is the UAE)
Comprehensive lists
US Foods Holding Corp.
Compatibility issues other than ethylene
Onions and potatoes
— There's an online myth that onions and potatoes should be stored separately because of ethylene problems. In fact, onions generate fairly little ethylene. The biggest reason to keep them apart is that
potatoes produce a decent amount of moisture, and onions have to be stored in a dry environment
.
[2]
.
Optimal potato storage
[2]
— Store them in a cool place to avoid sprouting. The exact temperature
depends on potato variety
, but is generally 37-55°F. Ideally they should be kept in a dark place, such as a
cardboard box
.
Optimal onion storage
— Store them in a
cool, dry, well-ventilated
place, and avoid bruising them. Don't store them in a plastic bag; ideally they should be in a mesh bag, wire basket, or wooden crate.