In our daily lives, most of our time is spent in indoor environments. Therefore, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for preserving our health. PM2.5, particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns, can penetrate deep into the lungs due to their tiny size, and long-term exposure can lead to various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, we need to reduce PM2.5 concentration indoors and purify the air.

But why does the PM2.5 sensor sometimes indicate that indoor PM2.5 has exceeded the limit while we are cooking?

In the view of Guangzhou Luftmy, the reasons are likely the following:

1. Particles from high-temperature cooking: High-temperature cooking methods like frying produce oil fumes, which contain large amounts of PM2.5. When oil decomposes at high temperatures, it generates tiny oil droplets and chemicals, which are sources of PM2.5.

2. Particles from food ingredients themselves: Certain ingredients also produce tiny particles during the cooking process. For example, the smoke generated when grilling meat is rich in PM2.5.

3. Incomplete combustion: When using natural gas or electric stoves for cooking, PM2.5 can also be produced if combustion is incomplete.

How can we reduce the PM2.5 generated during cooking?

● Improve kitchen ventilation: Installing an efficient range hood and ensuring good natural ventilation are key to reducing kitchen PM2.5.

● Use low-pollution cooking methods: Methods such as steaming and stewing produce much less PM2.5 compared to high-temperature frying.

● Regularly clean cooking equipment: Keeping stoves and range hoods clean can reduce grease accumulation, thereby decreasing PM2.5 generation.

Home cooking activities are a significant source of indoor PM2.5 pollution. Understanding the reasons for PM2.5 generation during cooking and taking effective measures—such as improving kitchen ventilation, using low-pollution cooking methods, and utilizing PM2.5 sensors for air quality monitoring—is vital for maintaining good indoor air quality. Through these measures, we can not only enjoy the pleasure of cooking but also ensure the health of ourselves and our families.