Why does cutting onions make you cry?
Digest
This podcast episode begins with the host humorously describing their pre-dinner party jitters. The main segment focuses on the science behind why chopping onions makes people cry. Kenji Lopez-Alt explains that this is due to the release of lacrimators, sulfur-based compounds released when onion cells are ruptured. Using a sharp knife, chilling the onions, and soaking them in water are all suggested methods to reduce tear production. The episode concludes with the host welcoming their dinner guests and promoting related podcasts and YouTube channels.
Outlines
Dinner Party Jitters & Onion Science
The episode starts with the host's humorous account of pre-dinner party nerves, seamlessly transitioning into a scientific explanation of why chopping onions causes tears, focusing on lacrimators and methods to mitigate their effects.
Episode Conclusion & Promotion
The host wraps up the episode, welcoming dinner guests and promoting related content, including the Brains On podcast and Brains On Universe YouTube channel.
Keywords
Lacrimators
Chemical compounds, primarily sulfur-based, found in onions and other plants, released upon cutting, irritating the eyes.
Onion Cell Rupture
Damaging onion cells during cutting, releasing lacrimators; sharp knives minimize this.
Defense Mechanism (Plants)
Plants use chemical compounds like lacrimators as a defense against being eaten.
Chopping Onions
The act of cutting onions, releasing lacrimators and causing eye irritation.
Reducing Onion Tears
Techniques like using a sharp knife, chilling onions, and soaking them in water to minimize tear production.
Q&A
Why do onions make you cry when you chop them?
Onions contain sulfur-based compounds (lacrimators) released when cells are ruptured, irritating the eyes.
How can I reduce crying when chopping onions?
Use a sharp knife, chill the onions, soak them in water, or wear goggles.
What are lacrimators?
Lacrimators are chemical compounds that irritate the eyes and cause tearing; a plant defense mechanism.
Show Notes
Onions add zesty flavor to lots of different foods, like soups, salads, omelets, and much more! But sometimes, chopping them up can make your eyes water – ugh! Why does that happen, anyway? We asked chef and cookbook author Kenji Lopez-Alt to help us find the answer.
Got a question ON-ion your mind? Send it to us at BrainsOn.org/contact and we’ll find such a great answer, you’ll weep for joy!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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