One Pan for Everything

Each replay uses a recreated ChatGPT interface so the placement can be read in its original conversational context. It is not a live or embedded chat.

1. ObservedJul 25, 2026Conversation1 turnsPlacementAfter turn 01 turns · After turn 0Replay chat
   Observed conversationJul 25, 2026 · interface recreation

   ChatGPTArchived view

   why do onions make you cry when you cut them and is there a foolproof way to stop it

   Onions make you cry because cutting them damages their cells and triggers a chemical defense mechanism.

   Here's what happens:

   1. Cutting an onion breaks its cells.
   2. Enzymes and sulfur-containing compounds that were stored separately mix together.
   3. This reaction creates a volatile gas called syn-propanethial-S-oxide.
   4. The gas reaches your eyes and dissolves in your tears, forming a mild irritant.
   5. Your eyes respond by producing more tears to wash the irritant away.

   Is there a foolproof way to stop it?

   Not completely. There's no method that's 100% reliable in every situation, but some approaches work much better than others.

   • Use a very sharp knife. A sharp blade slices cleanly, crushing fewer cells and releasing less of the irritating gas. This is one of the simplest and most effective methods.
   • Chill the onion first. Refrigerate it for 30–60 minutes before cutting. The cold slows the chemical reactions and reduces how much gas is released.
   • Keep the cut side away from your face. This helps reduce the amount of gas drifting toward your eyes.
   • Use good ventilation. A fan blowing the fumes away from your face or cutting near a kitchen exhaust fan can make a noticeable difference.
   • Wear sealed goggles. Swim goggles or well-sealed safety goggles are about as close to foolproof as you can get because they physically block the gas from reaching your eyes.

   What about the popular tricks?

   Some are more myth than science:

   • ❌ Holding a piece of bread in your mouth: No good evidence it works.
   • ❌ Chewing gum: Doesn't stop the gas from reaching your eyes.
   • ❌ Putting a spoon in your mouth: A common myth with no convincing scientific support.
   • ⚠️ Cutting under running water or submerged in water: It can reduce the gas because water dissolves some of it, but it's awkward and can make knife work less safe.

   The best combination

   If you want the highest chance of staying tear-free:

   1. Chill the onion.
   2. Use a very sharp knife.
   3. Turn on a fan or your range hood.
   4. If you're especially sensitive, wear sealed goggles.

   That combination prevents most people from tearing up, although only the goggles can completely block the irritant from reaching your eyes.

   

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