How to prevent from crying while chopping onions?

Here are a few techniques that can help prevent crying while chopping onions:

1. Refrigerate the Onions: Place the onions in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This will help reduce the release of the volatile compounds that cause tears.

2. Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you make smoother and cleaner cuts, releasing fewer of these compounds.

3. Cut the Onion Root Side Down: This can help reduce the amount of fumes that rise toward your eyes.

4. Use a Kitchen Fan or Vent: If you have a range hood or kitchen fan, turn it on to remove the fumes from the air.

5. Wear Goggles or Safety Glasses: Eye protection can help block the fumes from reaching your eyes.

6. Chew Gum: Some people find that chewing gum while cutting onions helps to reduce tears.

7. Light a Candle: It's believed that the smoke produced by a lit candle can counteract the compounds in the onion that cause eye irritation.

8. Try Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, you may find that they provide a barrier between your eyes and the irritating compounds.

9. Hold Your Breath: Some people find that holding their breath for short periods while cutting onions helps.

10. Rinse the Onion and Knife: Rinsing the onion under cold water and wiping the knife can also help reduce the amount of fumes released.

It's important to note that some people may be more sensitive to the fumes released by onions than others. If you find that none of these techniques work, you may want to consider wearing goggles or safety glasses and cutting the onions in a well-ventilated area.