Onion Powder

Onion powder is a spice made from dried, ground onions. To make it, fresh onions are peeled, sliced, dehydrated, and then ground into a fine powder. This process removes the water, concentrating the onion flavor.

Manufacturers add onion powder to foods primarily for its savory, pungent flavor. It is a common ingredient in spice blends, snack foods, soups, sauces, and processed meats. It provides a consistent onion taste without the moisture or texture of fresh onions.

Onion powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a flavoring agent. At typical intake levels found in food, it is not known to cause adverse health effects for most people. As a common food ingredient rather than a food additive, it has not been specifically evaluated by JECFA or EFSA for an acceptable daily intake. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety.