What vibrant antioxidants, also found in blueberries, are concentrated in red onions?
Anthocyanins
Red onions are distinctive because they possess anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants responsible for imparting the deep red or purple pigmentation seen in these onions, as well as in fruits like blueberries and vegetables such as red cabbage. These compounds are strongly associated with positive health outcomes, particularly supporting vascular health and being linked to a reduced risk of developing heart disease. Since anthocyanins are concentrated in the outer layers of the red onion, the variety generally demonstrates higher overall antioxidant activity when compared directly against its white or yellow counterparts in scientific studies focused on these specific color-dependent pigments. Therefore, the presence of anthocyanins is the primary factor distinguishing the superior antioxidant profile of the red variety.
