Overview
- Researchers confirm the classic tear trigger is a sulfurous gas that forms stinging sulfenic acid when it meets your tears.
- Ultrafast cameras show inner onion layers act like a squeezed sponge, ejecting invisible liquid microdroplets that carry the same irritants.
- Knife choice and technique matter: dull blades and rapid, forceful chops increase pressure and release more irritants.
- Simple steps reduce the effect: use a sharp knife, cut slowly without pounding, chill the onion beforehand, and keep the area ventilated.
- Outlets summarizing the findings highlight that these evidence-based measures outperform popular kitchen folklore and quick fixes.