Onions are a staple ingredient in many dishes around the world. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, and they add flavor and depth to any meal. But why do onions make you cry? If you've ever chopped an onion, you know that the experience can be unpleasant. Your eyes start to water, and before you know it, you're in tears. In this article, we'll explore the science behind why onions make you cry and what you can do to prevent it.
The Science Behind It
The reason why onions make you cry has to do with the chemicals that are released when you cut into them. Onions contain enzymes called alliinases, which are stored in separate compartments in the onion cells. When you cut into an onion, you break open these compartments, and the alliinases come into contact with other enzymes and chemicals, including a sulfur-containing compound called syn-propanethial-S-oxide (Propanethial S-oxide).
When Propanethial S-oxide is released into the air, it reacts with the moisture in your eyes to create sulfuric acid. This acid irritates your eyes, causing them to water as a natural defense mechanism to flush out the irritant. The more you chop the onion, the more Propanethial S-oxide is released into the air, and the more tears you produce.
Preventing Tears
So, what can you do to prevent tears when you're chopping onions? There are several strategies that you can try:
Chill the Onion
Putting the onion in the fridge or freezer for 15-30 minutes before chopping can slow down the release of Propanethial S-oxide, reducing the amount of irritant in the air.
Use a Sharp Knife
A sharp knife will cut through the onion more cleanly, causing less damage to the cells and releasing fewer enzymes and chemicals.
Cut Near Running Water
Cutting the onion under running water or in a bowl of water can help to dissolve the irritant and prevent it from reaching your eyes.
Wear Goggles
Wearing goggles or other eye protection can create a barrier between your eyes and the irritant, preventing tears.
Conclusion
Onions are an essential ingredient in many dishes, but they can also be a source of frustration for those who are sensitive to their effects. Understanding the science behind why onions make you cry can help you to prevent tears and make the chopping process more pleasant. Try out some of the strategies listed above and see what works best for you.