A popular alternative to natural gas risk
“A Very Hot Topic: Everything You Need to Know About Induction Cookers” by Lisa Zwirn (Wednesday, September 28) is an excellent article with informative, clear, and Interesting overview. I would like to add a little bit about the state of induction cooktops and cooktops today.
I recently listened to a presentation by Dr. Michael Martin of UCSF and Physicians for Social Responsibility, which focuses on climate change and the risks of nuclear war, for which shared the 1985 Nobel Peace Prize. (The speech was provided by the mother at the front.) I point to his credentials to emphasize one of the points he made. Today’s low-level response to the scientifically recognized risk of air pollution posed by gas appliances is similar to the lag in recognition of important scientific discoveries about passive smoking and its harmful effects on our health 50 years ago, he said. Let’s hope this time we don’t have to wait so long to accept an inconvenient fact.
Sloan Sable
Brooklyn
We can’t end our reliance on fossil fuels fast enough
Lisa Zwirn talks about the many benefits of using induction cooking over fossil fuels. I want to add one of the most important benefits: health and safety.
Research examines the chemical composition of gases released during cooking on kitchen stoves. The researchers found 296 compounds, including 21 federally designated hazardous air pollutants. These pollutants have been linked to asthma and other respiratory problems. Also, gas stoves can leak and cause pollution even if you are not cooking.
We must act now to end our dependence on fossil fuels and ensure a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren. Switching to induction cooktops will help achieve this and promote indoor safety and health benefits in the process.
Barbara DiVito
Newton
An Important Warning for Pacemaker Wearers
Lisa Zwirn’s article is well written and informative. However, perhaps the most important warning was ignored. Anyone with a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator must stay at least 2 feet away from them when turning on an induction cooktop. Items with motors or magnets that generate electromagnetic fields may interfere with these devices.
Patricia Williamson
salon