Onion sprouts, unlike most sprouts (which are actually roots) are true shoots and have a distinct onion flavour. Onion sprouts have a very short shelf life, so it is best to keep them in the freezer in small amounts, ready for use. They can then simply be soaked to thaw them. The seed also has a strong flavour and is often attached to the shoot. These are edible and need not be discarded. If buying the seed to germinate, this could take two weeks as they are very slow.