---
title: "Why Do Cut Onions Make Some People Cry More Than Others?"  
description: "Why Do Cut Onions Make Some People Cry More Than Others?"  
author: "Gabriela Gómez"  
published: 2026-10-26  
canonical: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/118307/why-do-cut-onions-make-some-people-cry-more-than-others  
category: "Mix Category"  
tags: ["food science", "Vegetables", "Everyday science"]  
reading_time: 1 minute  

---

# Why Do Cut Onions Make Some People Cry More Than Others?

I know onions release something irritating when they’re cut, but the effect seems wildly different from one person to another. I can chop one without much trouble, while a family member starts tearing up almost immediately.

Does the amount of crying depend mostly on the onion itself, the way it’s cut, or individual sensitivity? I’ve heard people recommend chilling onions or using a sharper knife, but I’m not sure whether those ideas reduce the irritating compounds or just change how quickly they reach your eyes.

What actually explains the onion tear response, and are common kitchen tricks worth trying?


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Original Source: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/118307/why-do-cut-onions-make-some-people-cry-more-than-others

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