Simple tips to avoid tears: Many people deal with tearing and irritation when cutting onions, often turning the simple act of meal preparation into an emotional experience. But why do we cry when cutting onions? The fact is that it involves a chemical reaction when cutting onions. Fortunately, there are some effective ways to avoid tears when cutting onions. In this blog, you will learn about the science behind this as well as some simple tips to keep your tears at bay.

Why do we cry when cutting onions?
When cutting onions, you cut and break the cell walls. Sulfur compounds inside react with the air. These reactions yield a volatile gas that irritates the eyes and activates the tear glands, causing you to tear as a protective way to flush out the irritant.

Effective ways to avoid tears when cutting onions

1. Chill the onion prior to cutting.
Children the onion in the freezer for 10–15 minutes delays the release of gas which reduces the irritation.

2. Use a sharp knife.
Using a sharp knife will allow for a cleaner cut, reducing the amount of cell damage. The less damaged onion the less sulfur compounds released.

3. Cut onions under running water.
If you chop under running water or submerge in water the gas will not reach your eyes. The gas will dissolve in the water.

4. Wear Protective Glasses
Kitchen goggles or safety glasses are a barrier, providing distance between the irritating onion fumes and your eyes.

5. Have a Fan near
A fan or ventilator routes the onion gas away from your face.

6. Chew gum while cutting.
Chewing gum makes you breathe through your mouth and keeps your eyes from the onion fumes.

7. Soak the onion in vinegar.
Soaking onions in vinegar or lemon juice destroys the sulfur compounds and minimizes irritation.

Also Read: Is Eating Raw Onions Healthy? Read on to know more.

Although cutting onions make you cry at origination point, there are techniques you can take to reduce irritation. With chilly methods, sharp knives, protectors, and ventilation you can enjoy cooking without teary wet eyes and all its discussion. Try these tricks and relish in your no tears cooking experience!

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