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Tearing up and getting a runny nose while cutting onions is a natural reaction caused by a gas the vegetable releases.
Onions release certain natural chemicals after being cut.
Onions are among the most widely grown and used vegetables around the world. From soups and omelettes to gravies and stir-fries, they add a deep flavour that’s hard to beat. But while cooking with onions is a joy, cutting them? Not so much. Almost everyone has experienced the sting and tears that come with chopping onions.
This happens because onions release a gas that irritates the eyes, a natural defence mechanism that triggers tears to protect them from the pungent fumes. Before you slice into your next onion, here’s a quick look at why they make you cry, how to stop the tears, and whether some types of onions are gentler on the eyes than others.
Why Do Onions Make You Cry?
Onions spew enzymes and sulfenic acid when cut. This starts a reaction that creates a strong-smelling gas. This gas helps keep pests away, but it also affects our eyes. When the gas reaches our eyes, it causes a burning sensation. In response, our eyes make tears to wash the gas away.
If you are sensitive or allergic to onions or other similar vegetables, your body may react more severely. This could mean more eye irritation, sneezing or even skin rashes.
How To Prevent Tears While Cutting Onions?
Speaking with CNN, food scientist Dr Abbey Thiel shared a few simple ways to reduce tears while cutting onions. One easy method is to place a fan nearby, which helps push away the gas that comes out of the onion, so it doesn’t reach your eyes. She also mentioned that wearing contact lenses can help more than glasses, since they act like a barrier and protect the eyes from irritation.
Another helpful trick is to chill the onions before cutting them. You can keep them in the fridge, freezer or soak them in cold water for some time.
Does Onion Type Matter?
There are many kinds of onions. Vegetables with yellow, red and white ones have more sulfur, which means they release more strong gas when someone cuts them. On the other hand, sweeter onions like green onions have less sulfur. Because of this, they have a milder smell and it doesn’t lead to tears. So, the type of onion you choose can make a difference in how your eyes react while cooking.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
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Delhi, India, India
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