Shortened life by 2 years, 40,000 deaths per year in Europe... the hidden side of gas stoves ☠️

Gas stoves, just simple kitchen appliances? Much more than that. These devices release alarming pollutants into the air we breathe.

Each year, thousands of Europeans are exposed to these emissions. Inhaled daily, these substances endanger health and shorten lifespan.


Gas stoves burn fossil gas, releasing nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and other harmful substances. This gas, often ignored by users, is an irritant to the respiratory system and a factor in lung diseases.

According to a study by Jaume I University in Spain, 40,000 annual deaths in Europe are linked to the use of gas stoves. People cooking with gas may see their lifespan shortened by nearly 2 years due to the inhalation caused by this cooking method. Alarming figures that highlight a little-known danger.

Researchers compared the indoor pollution generated by these appliances with outdoor air. Households equipped with gas stoves inhale NO2 levels far above WHO standards.

Many European households are affected: on average, a third use gas for cooking, and up to 60% in Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, and Hungary.

Analysts emphasize that the current estimate might be understated. Indeed, other substances such as carbon monoxide and benzene were not included in the calculations.

The European Public Health Alliance is calling on the European Union to take action by limiting emissions from gas appliances. It proposes financial aid to encourage the transition to less polluting devices.

Consumers, for their part, can take simple precautions, such as opening windows or turning on the hood while cooking to reduce exposure.

What is nitrogen dioxide (NO2)?

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is an irritant gas, mostly produced by the combustion of fossil fuels, particularly in gasoline vehicles and gas cooking appliances. Although invisible, it is responsible for several health impacts on the respiratory system, notably causing inflammation and exacerbating lung diseases.

In confined spaces, such as kitchens, NO2 concentrations can reach levels exceeding health recommendations. These particles can trigger asthma attacks, heart diseases, and even premature deaths. Ventilation systems can help, but they do not completely eliminate NO2 emissions.