A recent study conducted by Stanford researchers has shed light on a concerning issue related to using gas stoves in homes. The study found that the combustion process in gas stoves can significantly raise indoor levels of a carcinogenic chemical called benzene, which is linked to a higher risk of blood cell cancers, including leukemia. This discovery is particularly alarming considering that approximately 47 million homes rely on natural gas or propane-burning cooktops and ovens.

The research revealed that a single gas cooktop burner set on high or a gas oven operating at 350 degrees Fahrenheit could generate high indoor benzene levels. Furthermore, benzene spreads throughout the home and persists in the air for hours. The findings of this study were published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.

Worse than Secondhand Smoke

The study's findings reveal that the indoor benzene concentrations produced by gas stoves can be even more concerning than the levels typically in secondhand smoke. This indicates that individuals who regularly cook with gas stoves may unknowingly expose themselves and their families to higher concentrations of this harmful chemical. What makes matters worse is that benzene can travel beyond the confines of the kitchen, infiltrating other rooms within the house. Measurements taken in bedrooms, for instance, have indicated benzene levels exceeding national and international health standards.

Interestingly, the study also sheds light on the limitations of residential range hoods, commonly employed to mitigate pollutants released during cooking. Despite their intended purpose, the researchers discovered that these range hoods were not consistently effective in reducing benzene concentrations, especially when they vented the air outdoors. This suggests that relying solely on range hoods may not provide sufficient protection against the elevated levels of benzene produced by gas stoves.

How to Reduce Exposure to Pollutants from Gas Stoves

Given the potential health risks associated with gas stoves, it is crucial to minimize exposure to pollutants. Here are some relatively low-cost approaches that can help:

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  • Use portable induction cooktops, available for less than $50 when purchased new.

  • Utilize electric kitchenware such as tea kettles, toaster ovens, and slow cookers.

  • Take advantage of state and local rebates and low- or no-interest loans to offset the cost of replacing gas appliances. Programs like these are available in California and the San Francisco Bay Area.

  • Be aware that federal tax credits are currently accessible, and federal rebates are expected to become available shortly to help alleviate the cost of replacing gas appliances.

Implementing these measures can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to harmful pollutants from gas stoves and create a safer living environment.

The Dangers of Gas Stoves

The recently published paper is the first of its kind to analyze benzene emissions, specifically the use of gas stoves and ovens. Previous studies primarily focused on gas stove leaks when they were not in use and did not directly measure resulting benzene concentrations. The Stanford-led research team discovered that gas and propane burners and ovens emitted benzene at high rates. In contrast, induction cooktops did not emit any detectable benzene. Gas combustion released benzene at significantly higher rates than those identified in studies examining unburned gas leaks.

The study clarified that benzene emissions were solely a result of the fuel used and not influenced by the food being cooked. Testing showed zero benzene emissions from pan-frying salmon or bacon, indicating that the source of the chemical lies within the gas itself.

It is worth noting that gas-burning stoves pose health risks and contribute to environmental issues. Previous Stanford-led research demonstrated that gas stoves in U.S. households release methane, a potent greenhouse gas, at a level equivalent to the carbon dioxide emissions of around 500,000 gasoline-powered cars. Additionally, these stoves expose users to pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, which can trigger respiratory diseases. Studies have also shown a higher risk of asthma in children living in homes with gas stoves than those without. Gas stoves are estimated to be responsible for 12.7% of childhood asthma cases in the United States.

Considering the mounting evidence concerning the health and environmental impacts of gas stoves, raising awareness and promoting alternative cooking methods that minimize these risks is essential.

Addressing this issue requires a collective effort from policymakers, manufacturers, and consumers. Governments can play a crucial role by implementing regulations and providing incentives to promote safer cooking methods. Manufacturers should invest in research and development to create more efficient electric alternatives to gas stoves.

As consumers, we can make informed choices and adopt practices that reduce our exposure to pollutants, safeguarding our health and the well-being of future generations.

About the Author

jenningsRobert Jennings is co-publisher of InnerSelf.com with his wife Marie T Russell. He attended the University of Florida, Southern Technical Institute, and the University of Central Florida with studies in real estate, urban development, finance, architectural engineering, and elementary education. He was a member of the US Marine Corps and The US Army having commanded a field artillery battery in Germany. He worked in real estate finance, construction and development for 25 years before starting InnerSelf.com in 1996.

InnerSelf is dedicated to sharing information that allows people to make educated and insightful choices in their personal life, for the good of the commons, and for the well-being of the planet. InnerSelf Magazine is in its 30+year of publication in either print (1984-1995) or online as InnerSelf.com. Please support our work.

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