The claim. “For tear-free chopping, mincing, dicing, slicing--fear no onion,” says the packaging for RSVP Onion Goggles, whose anti-fog lenses with foam seal are designed to protect eyes from irritating vapors.

The check. Seven staffers who say they typically cry when chopping onions each received a big red onion cut in three pieces. Volunteers wore no protection while chopping the first piece. Before chopping the other pieces, they donned either Onion Goggles or safety goggles that made no dry-eye claim.

CR’s take. Weep no more. Most panelists said Onion Goggles, available at online stores, limited tearing and burning. That said, some reckoned they didn’t chop enough onions to fork over $19.95 to keep their eyes dry. Moreover, Onion Goggles won’t fit over eyeglasses. Other safety goggles helped a bit, cost less, and in some cases fit over glasses. Alternatives to the geek look: Chill onions before peeling; peel onions under running water and chop them in a food processor; or use a sharp knife, which minimizes the chemical process that leads to tears. (The squashing of onion cells and admission of air allows an enzyme to react with sulfur compounds in the onion, releasing the substance that irritates eyes.)