WhyOnionsmake us cry when chopping?
Unstable chemical compounds in onions produce chemicals called syn-propanethial-S-oxide, which irritate the tear glands and cause tears. Scientists explain that this is due to unstable chemicals released when chopping onions. Recent studies in Japan have shown that an unknown enzyme is responsible for the tear-inducing effect.
Why do tears form when chopping onions?
This tear-inducing process occurs as follows:
This tear-inducing compound becomes airborne when chopping onions. An enzyme converts onion amino acid sulfides into sulfonic acid, which itself becomes syn-propanethial-S-oxide. This compound enters the air and contacts our eyes, stimulating the tear glands and causing tears.SelMagzAs mentioned, tear glands are stimulated by contact with this chemical, leading to tear production. Not everyone reacts to these chemicals with equal intensity. You might be surprised that your friend easily chops onions while you stand farther away with a bowl of tears in your eyes.
Reasons for crying when peeling and chopping onions
No, don’t think you are more dramatic; some people naturally have more sensitive tear glands than others. Unfortunately, we cannot know if we are sensitive or not, nor can we do anything to reduce this sensitivity. However, some measures might help reduce burning or eye pain.Eye burning sensationand discomfort
