Why We Need Warning Labels on Gas Stoves

Gas stove burners
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Imagine coming home after a long day, looking forward to a comforting home-cooked meal. You turn on your gas stove, the familiar blue flame flickers to life, and you start cooking. It’s a scene that plays out in countless kitchens every day. Gas stoves are a staple in many households, valued for their quick and efficient heat. But while we’re focused on preparing dinner, we often overlook the hidden health risks that come with using these common appliances.

The Hidden Dangers of Gas Stoves

Gas stoves are more than just cooking appliances; they are sources of indoor air pollution. They emit nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO2). These pollutants can exacerbate respiratory issues and increase the risk of  asthma. Homes with gas stoves can experience levels of indoor air pollution that surpass the safety limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

With developing lungs, children are particularly susceptible to the impacts of gas stove pollution. Children in homes with gas stoves have a 42% increased risk of developing asthma

The connection between gas stoves and respiratory health highlights the urgent need for public awareness and action.

Gas stove should come with a warning label 

Assembly Bill 2513 is a legislative proposal in California that would mandate warning labels on gas stoves. These labels would function much like the warnings on cigarette packages, informing consumers about the potential health risks associated with using gas stoves. By providing this information at the point of purchase and use, AB 2513 empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their kitchen appliances.

The Importance of Warning Labels

A series of five different meta-analyses, conducted by the Association for Consumer Research, found that warning labels are effective in attracting consumers’ attention, and appear to positively influence consumer behavior. Consumers’ perceptions of risks and hazards were found to more likely be influenced by a warning label when associated with products that are purchased less frequently, like a kitchen appliance.

Warning labels serve as immediate reminders of the potential dangers, prompting consumers to at least be aware of the risks and be able to take preventive measures. For gas stoves, these measures could include improving kitchen ventilation, using exhaust fans more frequently, or considering a switch to electric stoves.

The Urgent Need for AB 2513

With the legislative cycle reopening in August, the urgency to address this issue becomes even more critical. AB 2513 is currently in the Senate, and its passage could lead to significant improvements in public health. The bill represents a proactive approach to mitigate the hidden dangers of gas stoves and ensure that consumers are adequately informed.

You can help support AB 2513 (Pellerin) by contacting your legislators to express your support. Personal stories and vocal support from constituents can significantly influence legislative action.

Together, we can take significant strides towards ensuring that Californians are better informed and better protected from the potential dangers of gas stove emissions. Let’s support AB 2513 and bring the hidden risks of gas stoves into the light.

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Authors

Patrick Oh

Patrick Oh is a senior at Pomona College and summer intern with CALPIRG.

Jenn Engstrom

State Director, CALPIRG

Jenn directs CALPIRG’s advocacy efforts, and is a leading voice in Sacramento and across the state on protecting public health, consumer protections and defending our democracy. Jenn has served on the CALPIRG board for the past two years before stepping into her current role. Most recently, as the deputy national director for the Student PIRGs, she helped run our national effort to mobilize hundreds of thousands of students to vote. She led CALPIRG’s organizing team for years and managed our citizen outreach offices across the state, running campaigns to ban single-use plastic bags, stop the overuse of antibiotics, and go 100% renewable energy. Jenn lives in Los Angeles, where she enjoys spending time at the beach and visiting the many amazing restaurants in her city.