Researchers have known for some time that onions may help fight cancer, but this study is believed to be the first to compare cancer-fighting abilities among commonly consumed onion varieties. Turns out the stronger the onions the more likely they will inhibit cancer growth. So feel free to consume them and tell those that are troubled by your breath you are just on an anti-cancer program. Shallots and onion varieties with the strongest flavor - Western Yellow, New York Bold and Northern Red - had the highest total antioxidant activity, an indication that they may have a stronger ability to destroy charged molecules called free radicals, an excess of which are thought to increase the risk of disease, particularly cancer.
Eurek Alert October 21, 2004