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If you woke up in <keyword id="19900881" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="delhi" source="keywords">Delhi</keyword> recently, you might have noticed more than just the nip in the air – a thick, toxic smog has blanketed the city, turning the air almost unbreathable. On Monday, Delhi’s <keyword id="19920379" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-quality-index" source="keywords">Air Quality Index</keyword> (<keyword id="19916482" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="aqi" source="keywords">AQI</keyword>) hit 481, placing it in the "severe plus" category. For context, the “severe” category begins at an AQI of 401, and anything above 450 poses serious health risks even for healthy individuals.<br /><br />According to Swiss group IQAir’s live rankings, Delhi is currently the most polluted city in the world, with an air quality score of 1,081 – a “hazardous” level that is 130.9 times the World Health Organization’s recommended limit for PM2.5.<br /><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:14pt;margin-bottom:4pt;">Major contributors to Delhi’s smog</h3>The root causes of Delhi’s pollution are manifold:<br /><br /><ul><li>Stubble Burning: On Saturday, crop residue burning contributed 25% of Delhi’s air pollution. By Sunday, this figure had climbed to 40%, according to SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research). Satellites recorded 1,334 stubble-burning incidents in six northern states on Sunday alone, the highest number in four days.</li><li>Vehicles: On Sunday, vehicular emissions accounted for 15.8% of the city’s pollution, according to the Centre’s Decision Support System for Air Quality Management.</li><li>Construction Dust and Industrial Emissions: PM2.5, a deadly pollutant, remains the most prominent factor, capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and leading to severe respiratory and cardiac diseases.</li></ul><h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:14pt;margin-bottom:4pt;"><keyword id="24020184" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="GRAP-Stage-4" source="keywords">GRAP Stage 4</keyword></h3>To combat the rising pollution levels, authorities have enforced Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Here’s a breakdown of the restrictions:<br /><ul><li>Vehicle Restrictions:</li><ul><li>Diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles (BS-IV and below) registered in Delhi are banned unless carrying essential goods.</li><li>Non-essential light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi can only enter if they use CNG, BS-VI diesel, or are electric.</li><li>Trucks carrying non-essential items are barred unless they use cleaner fuels like LNG, CNG, or BS-VI diesel.<br /></li></ul><li>Workplace and School Adjustments:</li><ul><li>Classes for students in grades 6 to 9 and class 11 have moved online.</li><li>Offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) are advised to work at 50% capacity, with the rest operating remotely.<br /></li></ul><li>Construction Ban:<br /></li><ul><li>Construction and demolition (C&amp;D) activities have been halted, including large projects like highways, flyovers, and pipelines.<br /></li></ul></ul>Out of Delhi’s 40 monitoring stations, 32 reported AQI levels above 400 on Monday. Visibility in parts of the city dropped to just 100 metres due to the thick smog.<br /><br />The health implications of these numbers are alarming. <keyword id="20118319" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="PM2-5-levels" source="keywords">PM2.5 levels</keyword> in Delhi were recorded at 130.9 times the safe limit set by the WHO. According to experts, long-term exposure to such air quality could lead to an 11% increase in premature mortality rates due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that Delhi residents may lose an average of 10 years of life expectancy if pollution levels persist.<br /><br />Despite the restrictions, life in Delhi continues under a cloud of smog. Iconic landmarks like India Gate have become barely visible through the haze. While flights and trains are operational, some delays have been reported.<br />

GRAP Stage 4 restrictions take effect as air quality in Delhi deteriorates; PM2.5 levels 130 times higher than WHO limits

Imagine taking a deep breath, expecting fresh, clean air, but instead, inhaling particles so tiny they’re invisible but powerful enough to change your life. For millions worldwide, that’s the reality — and it’s taking a toll on their lungs. A new global study shows that nearly 30% of <keyword id="22476122" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="asthma-cases" source="keywords">asthma cases</keyword> can be traced back to long-term exposure to <keyword id="20147117" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fine-particulate-matter" source="keywords">fine particulate matter</keyword>, or <keyword id="20573061" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="PM2-5" source="keywords">PM2.5</keyword>, the kind of pollution that often comes from cars, factories, and even cooking fires.<br /><h2>How PM2.5 impacts asthma</h2>Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by recurring symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. While the exact causes of asthma remain complex and varied, this new study underlines that PM2.5 pollution is a significant risk factor.<br /><br />The study brings together insights from 68 epidemiological studies conducted across 22 countries, spanning regions from North America to South Asia. This comprehensive meta-analysis demonstrates the consistent impact of PM2.5 on asthma development.<br />    <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114504550" title="Most people miss THIS warning on their mosquito repellent vaporizer’s label" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Lead author Dr Ruijing Ni explained, “We estimate that globally in 2019, almost a third of asthma cases are attributable to long-term PM2.5 exposure, corresponding to 63.5 million existing cases and 11.4 million new cases.”<br /><h2>The Indian asthma problem</h2>India, one of the world’s most polluted countries, faces a particularly severe burden from <keyword id="19900550" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-pollution" source="keywords">air pollution</keyword>. Studies have shown that PM2.5 levels in many Indian cities far exceed the <keyword id="19896311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Health-Organization" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="World Health Organization" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="World Health Organization">World Health Organization</keyword>'s safe limit of 5 µg/m³. This exposure is especially dangerous for children, whose lungs and immune systems are still developing.<br /><br />The numbers are worrying: around 15-20 million Indians suffer from asthma, making up a significant portion of the estimated 339 million cases worldwide. Children are disproportionately affected; a 2019 report indicated that approximately 6% of children aged 1 to 5 in India show asthma symptoms. This exposure often results in airway inflammation and oxidative stress, which increases vulnerability to <keyword id="19923193" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="respiratory-diseases" source="keywords">respiratory diseases</keyword>.<br /><h2>What the data says</h2>The research team employed exposure-response curves to better understand the link between PM2.5 levels and asthma cases. By considering data from both high-income and low- and middle-income countries, the researchers could provide a more accurate global assessment of PM2.5’s <keyword id="21037424" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-impact" source="keywords">health impact</keyword>.<br /><br />The study found that in Germany, for instance, PM2.5 may be responsible for about 11% of new asthma cases — roughly 28,000 people. However, the burden is even higher in low- and middle-income countries like India, where higher levels of pollution are coupled with limited healthcare access. This disparity highlights the need for global action to reduce PM2.5 emissions, especially in regions where pollution levels and health impacts are most severe.<br /><h2>Policy implications and recommendations</h2>The findings have clear implications for policymakers. Strengthening <keyword id="19918941" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-quality" source="keywords">air quality</keyword> regulations, especially in high-exposure regions, could prevent millions of new asthma cases and reduce healthcare costs.<br /><br />“Our findings highlight the urgent need for policymakers to enforce stringent legislation to continuously combat air pollution,” emphasised another study author Prof. Yafang Cheng. <br />    <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114695519" title="Are your green firecrackers really ‘green? Here’s all you need to know before doing your Diwali shopping" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In addition to governmental measures, personal protective actions like wearing masks and installing air purifiers in homes can also help individuals reduce their exposure to PM2.5, particularly during high-pollution periods.<br /><br />This study adds to the growing evidence that reducing air pollution is critical for public health. While global challenges like PM2.5 pollution may seem daunting, each step toward cleaner air can bring significant health benefits. For countries like India, where asthma rates and pollution levels are both alarmingly high, these findings underscore an urgent need for both policy and community action to protect the most vulnerable — particularly children.<br />

Air Quality Alert: Nearly 30% of asthma cases tied to fine particulate matter exposure from bad air

The <keyword id="19933819" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="olympics" source="keywords">Olympics</keyword> 2024 is taking place in the city of love this time, and it looks like the organisers are also expecting a love in the air. Reportedly, a whopping 2,00,000 male and 20,000 female <keyword id="20055740" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="condoms" source="keywords">condoms</keyword> have been distributed for the <keyword id="19929069" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="athletes" source="keywords">athletes</keyword>, staff and press at the <keyword id="21070651" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Olympic-Village" source="keywords">Olympic Village</keyword>.<br /><br />In stark contrast to the COVID-era restrictions of the Tokyo Olympics, where physical contact was widely discouraged, Paris is sending a clear message: athletes deserve to feel comfortable and relaxed. Considering only around 14,250 athletes and a few more thousands of support staff at the village, the number of condoms does seem like a substantial step towards ensuring <keyword id="20129210" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="safe-sex" source="keywords">safe sex</keyword> or the "extra-curricular frivolities", as the organising committee put it.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112172415" title="How are athletes from banned countries like Russia participating in the Paris Olympics?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Dispelling rumours of anti-sex beds at the Village, organisers are taking this step to promote safe sex among the athletes. The city is redesigning condom packaging to promote sexual consent, tying it to the Games' festive spirit. The package featuring Olympic mascots and messages about safe sex have been distributed throughout the Olympic venues. <br /><br />"With 200,000 male condoms, 20,000 female condoms, and 10,000 oral dams available to those in the Olympic Village, safe sex is paramount in a notoriously febrile environment, akin to students at college, but sweatier," the Olympics' site said. Laurent Dalard, the first-aid and health services coordinator for <keyword id="20827379" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Paris-2024" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Paris 2024" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Paris 2024">Paris 2024</keyword>, said that enough prophylactics have been distributed to cover the athletes staying at the Olympic Village, as well as those staying further afield.<br /><div type="twitter" handle="KantInEast" handlename="KantInEast" favoritecount="0" retweetcount="0" id="1818132480060498247"></div>Further, the packaging has participants gushing and includes different phrases on each of them, such as, <em>'On the field of love, play fair. Ask for consent'</em>, <em>'Don’t share more than victory, protect yourself against STDs'</em>, and <em>'No need to be a gold medalist to wear it!'</em><br /><br />Condoms have been a staple at Olympic Games for decades. Beginning as a modest <keyword id="22629140" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="HIV/AIDS-awareness" source="keywords">HIV/AIDS awareness</keyword> initiative at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, the number of condoms provided has skyrocketed over the years, reaching a peak at the 2016 Rio Olympics.<br /><br />While the Tokyo Olympics imposed restrictions due to the pandemic, previous games, particularly Rio 2016, witnessed a massive distribution of a staggering 4,50,000 condoms. In fact, despite the COVID-19 restrictions imposed at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, the tradition of condom distribution persisted.<br /><br />While the details on the nature of sexual activity in the Olympic Village remain elusive, numerous athletes have publicly acknowledged the extensive prevalence. The usage of dating apps such as Tinder and Grindr are said to be very common within the Village.<br /><br />Experts opine that it's perfectly natural since these athletes are at their peak in terms of physicality and spend most of their time training. Once the pressure of the competitions are off, they can finally indulge in some fun.<br /><br />However, many athletes and even coaches think that the Olympic Village is not as prolific as the media paints it to be. Regardless of what actually goes on at the Olympic Village in Paris, it is admirable that the organisers are taking this step to ensure safe sex amongst the athletes.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112192120" title="25m pistol with Manu Bhaker, Lakshya Sen pre-quarterfinals: Don&amp;#39;t miss these exciting Indian Olympics games from Aug 1-6!" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br />

Why have the Paris Olympics 2024 athletes been given over 2 lakh condoms?

As <keyword id="19900550" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-pollution" source="keywords">air pollution</keyword> rises in the national capital, experts have advocated the use of <keyword id="23378997" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="activated-charcoal" source="keywords">activated charcoal</keyword> as a <keyword id="20677308" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="natural-remedy" source="keywords">natural remedy</keyword> for preventing clogging of skin pores and keep out toxins. The experts said activated charcoal masks are effective in reducing sebum (oily substance) from the face skin, thus helping treat acne as they have good absorbing properties. <br /><br /> Dr R P Parasher, the national president of the Integrated Medical Association (Ayush), said that activated charcoal, dubbed as '<keyword id="23640477" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="black-diamond" source="keywords">Black Diamond</keyword>', has good sebum absorbing properties. <br /><br /> As pollution levels escalate, it causes concern for the skin as particulate matter ranging from PM2.5 to PM10 may lead to the blockage of the skin pores and lead to breakouts, Dr Parasher said. <br /><br /> Further, chemicals like lead and nitrogen which increase in the atmosphere during the pollution surge, may damage the skin and may even enter the blood stream through the skin pores which may further damage organs in the body in the long term, he said. <br /><br /> "Activated charcoal is not absorbed in the skin but absorbs the toxic elements as well as microbes present in the acne and in this way it saves the skin from getting damaged," he said. Activated charcoal can help balance and control <keyword id="22273531" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sebum-production" source="keywords">sebum production</keyword> which can otherwise lead to breakout and acne. <br /><br /> A study "Review of Green Synthesis: Activated Charcoal to Reduce Sebum Levels in Oily Facial Skin" by researchers from Indonesia stated that the porous texture of activated charcoal positively captures and attracts negatively charged molecules. Since activated charcoal is not absorbed by the body, it carries its surface-bound toxins out of the body. <br /><br /> Director of Ayouthveda, a skincare brand, Dr Sanchit Sharma, said that the process of creating activated charcoal involves carbonising harvested bamboo at very high temperatures, enhancing its surface area to weight ratio of about 1200:1. <br /><br /> This method not only maximises its effectiveness in absorbing toxins but also makes it a powerful ally in the fight against acne, he said. As awareness grows, several varieties of charcoal products are gaining popularity in Asian and European markets, promising a natural solution to many skin issues exacerbated by pollution, Sharma said. <br /><br /> Talking about his facewash product, he said, "Ayouthveda <keyword id="23640475" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="charcoal-face-wash" source="keywords">charcoal face wash</keyword> prepared from activated bamboo charcoal effectively cleanses the skin by removing dirt and impurities. "It protects the skin from pollution and absorbs excess oil, making it easy to remove makeup. It also eliminates sweat and toxins accumulated, for instance, during workouts or after a long day." <br /><br /> Though charcoal face wash are generally safe, overuse can cause some skin dryness, Dr Parasher pointed out.

Experts advocate using activated charcoal for skin benefits amid rising pollution in Delhi!

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Lithuania topped the World Happiness Report for people under 30, surprising some locals.</li><li>But many Gen Z Lithuanians agree that its capital, Vilnius, is a great place to live.</li></ul><p>When Lithuania <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-lithuania-world-happiest-country-for-gen-z-millennials-education-2024-6">topped the World Happiness Report</a> ranking for people under 30 earlier this year, it came as a bit of a shock — even for those who live there.</p><p>"It was a surprise," said Valdas Benkuskas, the mayor of its capital, Vilnius, when Business Insider visited in August.</p><p>But, he added: "We who are living here, we know what a wonderful city it is."</p><p><a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/i-moved-to-lithuania-from-us-life-more-stable-balanced-2024-8">Vilnius</a> is Lithuania's most vibrant and populous municipality, a Baltic city of thousands of students, tech start-ups, and greenery. And it has increasingly looked at ways to tailor itself to younger generations.</p><div type="image" title="Vilnius aerial view with hot air balloons over the top" height="1414" width="2121" msid="113455165" hostid="261" sizebytes="639984"></div><p>Benkuskas, an older millennial himself, says he's on a mission to attract young professionals from abroad to come and live in Vilnius, and believes that just one visit to the city will be enough to show its appeal.</p><p>"If you spend a week or more here, you can understand that we have a lot of advantages compared with other European cities," he said.</p><h2 id="547eafc0-acb8-4b87-8296-cc0eee1e34ec"><strong>Small city, big advantages</strong></h2><p><a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/lithuania-happiest-country-young-people-2024-3">The World Happiness Report</a> ranks countries based on a survey conducted by Gallup, where respondents evaluate the quality of their lives.</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link c-link--focus-visible" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-lithuania-world-happiest-country-for-gen-z-millennials-education-2024-6"><u>Lithuania's under-30s</u></a><span> rated themselves 7.76 out of 10, notably higher than their US counterparts (6.392), with locals citing factors to BI such as low rent, free education, and a vibrant nightlife.</span></p><p>Ignas Kazlauskas, a 28-year-old who runs a sustainable architecture firm and previously lived in the UK, told BI that Vilnius holds its own against other European capitals.</p><p>Vilnius offers a stark contrast to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-london-england-what-to-skip-2024-1">London's hustle and bustle,</a> he said — less densely populated, not overwhelmed by tourists, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eea.europa.eu/data-and-maps/daviz/percentage-of-total-green-infrastructure#tab-googlechartid_chart_11">about half the city</a> is made up of green spaces.</p><p>"The city is pretty laid-back, which is nice," he added, sipping a filter coffee at a trendy Old Town café where other patrons sat reading in the sun-drenched courtyard.</p><p>For a capital city, it's relatively small — about the size of Denver, which means that everything is within easy reach.</p><p>"You can basically walk across the whole center of Vilnius in half an hour," Kazlauskas said.</p><div type="image" title="Ignas" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455183" hostid="261" sizebytes="706564"></div><p>The city's 90-or-so lakes, ideal for kayaking, and some of the largest forests in the country are also nearby. When the weather allows, Kazlauskas pilots a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-hot-air-balloons-so-expensive-2024-1">hot air balloon</a> as a hobby.</p><p>"People are definitely much happier when they can spend time outdoors and relieve the stress of work, relationships, or whatever," he said.</p><h2 id="abbe48bb-9ff2-40d6-b100-e1a25defba95"><strong>Immigrant inflow</strong></h2><p>For decades, organized crime and a struggling economy led hundreds of thousands of Lithuanians, especially the young, to move abroad. However, many are coming back, with returning Lithuanians <a target="_blank" href="https://123.emn.lt/en/#immigration">representing a quarter of all immigrants</a> last year.</p><p>Tens of thousands of immigrants from outside the EU, many from Ukraine and Belarus, are also moving to a transformed Vilnius. The mayor and Lithuania's tourism board want others to follow suit.</p><p>Part of their pitch is that Vilnius, despite rising housing costs, still remains one of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-find-cheap-accommodation-europe-without-staying-in-hostel-2023-7">Europe's most affordable capitals</a> in which to rent.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/prc_colc_rents__custom_12695593/default/table?lang=en">According to Eurostat</a>, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vilnius in 2023 was equivalent to $876 — almost half the price of Berlin and about a third the price of London.</p><p>It can be even cheaper for students. 20-year-old Ričardas Pranculis pays only €65 a month, or about $94, for student accommodation.</p><p>Even on a student budget, he said he doesn't struggle to make ends meet. "I like living here," he added. "Wages have been increasing, more young people can work and earn money, so more people can try different hobbies."</p><div type="image" title="Ričardas Pranculis in a park" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455163" hostid="261" sizebytes="2323342"></div><p>According to an affordability index by the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.jura.lt/en/news/11934-study-reveals-the-most-affordable-european-capitals-to-live-in-bucharest-tops-list">personal finance website Finasvalp,</a> Vilnius is the fourth most affordable capital in Europe.</p><p>Elizabeth Avgusta, 24, a senior fund accountant from Indonesia who moved to Vilnius four years ago, said her salary goes a long way.</p><p>She told BI that it's easy to find meals for under 10 euros, or about $11, though the city also offers plenty of upscale dining options, including four <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/michelin-star-chef-paul-liebrandt-rates-fine-dining-in-movies-2024-6">Michelin-starred restaurants.</a></p><div type="image" title="Adriana Doroškevičiūtė and Elizabeth Avgusta by a fountain" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455170" hostid="261" sizebytes="2633294"></div><p>She also said she appreciates how inexpensive and convenient it is to travel from Vilnius. The airport is just a 15-minute drive away from the center, and several budget airlines operate from the city. With many <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-lesser-known-european-travel-destinations-from-frequent-traveler">European destinations</a> in easy reach, Vilnius is an ideal base.</p><p>Avgusta said she's considering <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/london-things-never-do-there-from-local">a trip to London</a> soon, having found round-trip flights for 30 euros. And her colleague, Adriana Doroškevičiūtė, 23, had just booked a cheap <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/berlin-travel-guide-germany-trip">trip to Berlin.</a></p><p>But Doroškevičiūtė says that even when traveling, she finds herself longing for Vilnius.</p><p>"Whenever I travel, I always want to come back," she said, describing Vilnius — her hometown — as a city that's comfortable to live in and full of things to do.</p><div type="image" title="Goda Ponomariovaitė stands by a skate park" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455174" hostid="261" sizebytes="672792"></div><p>Outside a food hall beside the Baltasis Tiltas, or White Bridge, 22-year-old Goda Ponomariovaitė looks for a place to sit.</p><p>The area, a vast green space, is teeming with young people — blasting music at the skate park, shooting hoops, and playing beach volleyball on a patch of fake sand.</p><p>On a sunny day in August, LA's Venice Beach comes to mind. It's also all free to use, probably why it has become such a popular hangout for the city's youth.</p><div type="image" title="View of the city from the baltasis tiltas" height="4284" width="5712" msid="113455177" hostid="261" sizebytes="1776256"></div><p>According to Ponomariovaitė, Vilnius has plenty of free or affordable hangout spots. One of her favorites is a former prison, transformed into a vibrant cultural center.</p><p>It attracts artists and aspiring musicians and regularly hosts free concerts and film screenings.</p><p>"We have so, so many bars and nightclubs," Ponomariovaitė said.</p><p>However, she says that what sets Vilnius apart from other cities she lived in, like Amsterdam, is how safe it feels.</p><p>"It's very safe, especially for women, to be in Vilnius and Lithuania at night,' she said. "If you are walking, you don't need to worry that somebody will kidnap you or something."</p><p>On an evening in mid-August, youthful <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/types-of-influencers-on-social-media-micro-macro-nano-classification-2020-1">influencer types</a> lined up outside trendy restaurants, while bars overflowed onto the cobbled streets with businesspeople clinking beer glasses. Meanwhile, an older crowd dispersed after attending a free show in the town square.</p><p>Vilnius is trying to offer something for everyone — or, as the mayor confidently puts it, everything for anyone.</p><p>"You can find here everything you need for a high quality of life," he added, "and that makes the city attractive."</p>

Vilnius is cheap, safe, and fun — no wonder it's the world's happiness capital for Gen Z

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Near-misses between aircraft are increasingly common.</li><li>The head of the FAA told Congress how its panel is examining sleep science to help.</li></ul><p>An initiative to help prevent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/near-miss-incidents-wakeup-call-to-the-aviation-industry-2023-2">close calls between aircraft</a> was announced by the Federal Aviation Administration this week.</p><p>Arrival Alert Notices are aimed at stopping "wrong-surface" events, such as a plane landing on the wrong runway or lining up on the wrong taxiway — creating the risk of a collision.</p><p>The notices, which the FAA started testing in 2022, give pilots an aerial view of an airport during pre-flight planning. They include important safety information like one runway being farther away than another, or noting that pilots sometimes confuse runways.</p><p>General aviation pilots account for 83% of wrong-surface events, the FAA said. But there have also been several recent instances involving commercial airlines.</p><p>Last year, The New York Times found that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/airline-close-calls-happening-multiple-times-nyt-investigation-2023-8">near-misses between aircraft</a> were happening more often than previously thought.</p><p>In January 2023, an American Airlines plane taxied onto the runway at JFK Airport while a Delta Air Lines flight was about to take off.</p><p>And in July, an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/kentucky-woman-allegiant-air-flight-near-miss-florida-2023-7">Allegiant Air flight attendant was injured</a> when the plane suddenly shot upwards to avoid a nearby private jet at the same altitude.</p><p>Despite the best efforts of pilots and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/becoming-air-traffic-controller-career-pros-cons-of-job-2022-1">air traffic controllers</a>, sometimes collisions do happen.</p><p>Earlier in February, two JetBlue planes collided, with one plane's wing hitting the other's tail in a de-icing area at Boston Logan International Airport. It was the third plane collision at the airport within a year, although nobody was injured.</p><p>The dangers were made clear in January when a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/japan-airlines-and-coast-guard-both-say-they-were-cleared-for-runway-2024-1">Japan Airlines A350 caught fire</a> after hitting a smaller plane on the runway at Tokyo Haneda Airport.</p><div type="image" title="Japan Airlines crash" height="2200" width="3300" msid="108182530" hostid="261" sizebytes="506972"></div><p>During a congressional hearing on February 5, the head of the FAA outlined its efforts to prevent such incidents.</p><p>Mike Whitaker said <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/faa-asking-airlines-be-more-vigilant-after-near-incidents-2023-3">close-calls</a> and runway incursions — when a plane is incorrectly situated on a runway — were his first area of inquiry when he took over as administrator last October.</p><p>He said the FAA is looking into "improved airport signage, and runway and taxiway redesign."</p><p>An FAA representative told Business Insider its plans included "technologies that provide capabilities to improve controller situational awareness and reduce runway incursions," such as a device that gives an audible and visual alert to controllers.</p><p>In January, the National Transportation Safety Board released its findings about the plane collision at JFK Airport a year earlier. It said the captain was distracted and confused by instructions from air traffic controllers, while the co-pilot lost track of the plane's location.</p><p>A collision was only avoided because the controller shouted at the pilots of the other plane to abort their takeoff.</p><p>"Overall, our data shows a recent downward trend in the rate of runway incursions," Whitaker said. "But to drive the number of runway incursions to zero, we must continue to focus on and invest in this priority."</p><h2>Mandatory overtime</h2><p>One major cause of near-misses is the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-traffic-controller-shortage-salary-requirements-plane-collisions-close-calls-2023-8">strained workload of air traffic controllers</a>.</p><p>Rich Santa, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, previously told Business Insider that many controllers are working six-day weeks and ten-hour days.</p><p>And The Times reported that some <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-traffic-controllers-workload-stress-alcohol-drugs-faa-close-calls-2023-12">controllers have turned to alcohol and sleeping pills</a> to cope with their grueling schedules.</p><p>Long hours and irregular shifts also cause fatigue, which in turn leads to more problems at airports — as pointed out by Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, during a Senate hearing last November.</p><p>"<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-traffic-control-staffing-shortage-causing-flight-cancellations-alpa-2022-6">Air traffic controllers</a> are being required to do mandatory overtime," she said. "It ends up leading to fatigue and distraction, which is exactly what we're seeing as part of these incident investigations. And it all just comes down to the shortage of staffing."</p><p>A government audit released last June found 77% of critical ATC facilities are understaffed.</p><p>Paul Rinaldi, a former NATCA president, told Forbes that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2023/06/26/faa-lacks-a-plan-for-air-traffic-control-shortage-per-government-report/">shortages began back in 2013</a> due to funding restrictions from budget sequestration.</p><p>"They closed the air traffic control academy," he said. "They looked at reducing hours and many air traffic facilities. They looked at closing and cutting more than 100 federal contract towers, and stopped most modernization projects."</p><p>It's also a notoriously difficult job, so there are lots of training requirements. When the world was struck by the COVID pandemic, many training programs were paused, in turn delaying certification for controllers.</p><p>The FAA is trying to combat the shortage in a variety of ways, like streamlining training programs.</p><p>An FAA spokesperson said it is "accelerating air traffic controller hiring by moving to a year-round hiring track for experienced controllers from the military and private industry," and enhancing training with modernized simulators.</p><p>"We are continuing to work on our culture, processes, systems, and integration of safety efforts to maintain our stellar safety record," they added.</p><h2>Fatigue measures</h2><p>It's also put together a panel to review air traffic controller fatigue.</p><p>"The panel will examine how the latest science on sleep needs and fatigue considerations could be applied to controller work requirements and scheduling," Whitaker said during the congressional hearing.</p><p>That includes "risks associated with controller fatigue resulting from shifting schedules and excessive overtime."</p><p>For pilots and cabin crew, dealing with fatigue is more apparent because they travel through different time zones, unlike controllers whose biggest risk is exhausting work schedules.</p><p>Boeing has developed an "alertness model" used for an app called CrewAlert, which anyone can download to assess fatigue risk.</p><p>Brad Surak, Boeing's vice-president for digital aviation solutions, told BI at last year's Paris Air Show: "Its main purpose is for an aircrew who's operating on a complex schedule.</p><p>"They're changing multiple time zones, they're getting schedules disrupted, and the airline has to replan where they might be based," he added. "We don't just operate the schedule for economics, we take into account the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wizz-air-ceo-safety-comments-pilots-should-fly-tired-2022-6">fatigue level of the crew</a>."</p><p class="p1">Now it looks like controllers' sleep schedules are set to receive more attention too. Not because they're unavoidably changing time zones like pilots, but because the work is so demanding.</p><p><strong><em>Do you work in air traffic control? Contact this reporter in confidence at </em></strong><a target="_blank" href="mailto:psyme@businessinsider.com"><strong>psyme@businessinsider.com</strong></a></p>

Air traffic controllers are overworked and stressed &mdash; and that's dangerous for safe flying

<keyword id="19895037" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bengaluru" source="keywords">Bengaluru</keyword> has been suffering from a pretty nasty streak of flooding every time the rains come rolling around, leaving residents struggling with power outages, flooded streets, and impassable roads. With this scenario in mind, let’s dive into how you can protect your vehicle during such conditions and how to care for it afterward. Driving through waterlogged roads can be intimidating, but with the right precautions, you can minimise damage to your vehicle.<br /><h4>1. Assess the <keyword id="23569146" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-depth" source="keywords">Water Depth</keyword></h4>Before attempting to cross a flooded road, take a moment to gauge how deep the water is. This isn’t just about looking at how far the water reaches on your tires, but also how other cars are handling it. Water deeper than 6 inches (about ankle height) can pose significant risks. For moving water, the danger is even greater. In fact, as little as 4 inches of fast-flowing water can sweep away a vehicle, leading to potentially life-threatening situations. Be cautious — if you're uncertain about the depth, turn around and take a different route.<br /><h4>2. Enter the Water Slowly and Steadily</h4>If there’s no way around the flooded street, approach it slowly. When you enter too fast, your car may aquaplane, which is when the tires lose contact with the road, making it easy to lose control. Aim for a slow and steady speed. as this allows your tires to maintain traction while reducing the chances of creating waves that could send water into the engine. Once in, keep your car moving at a steady pace without stopping.<br /><h4>3. Keep Your Engine Revved Up</h4>One of the major risks when driving through water is <keyword id="22589183" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="engine-damage" source="keywords">engine damage</keyword>. If water enters the exhaust pipe, it can cause the engine to seize, potentially leading to a costly repair. To avoid this, keep your engine’s revs high as you navigate through the water. In manual cars, slipping the clutch slightly while staying in a low gear helps maintain higher revs without speeding up too much. For automatic cars, switching to the lowest possible gear before entering the water is a smart move.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114274586" title="Bengaluru rains bring life to a standstill; relief likely after October 18" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h4>4. Beware of Large Vehicles</h4>If you’re driving near trucks or buses, be mindful of the large waves they create as they plow through floodwaters. These waves can wash over your car, increasing the likelihood of water entering your engine bay or cabin. It’s best to wait for larger vehicles to clear the flooded area before attempting to drive through yourself. Keeping a safe distance ensures you’re not caught in their wake.<br /><h4>5. Know What to Do if You Stall</h4>If your vehicle stalls while driving through water, the immediate response is crucial. Try to restart the car as quickly as possible because the longer the car remains stationary, the greater the chance of water entering critical parts like the exhaust system. However, if the water is too deep or you're unsure, it’s best to avoid restarting to prevent further damage. Instead, push the car to safety if possible, or call for help.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114136105" title="Heavy rains to lash across the country between Oct 12-16, here&amp;#39;s how you can insure your home from rain&amp;#39;s fury" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h2>Flood-aftercare for your vehicle</h2>Once you've navigated through the floodwaters, your car still requires attention to minimise long-term damage.<br /><h5>1. Dry Your Brakes</h5>Driving through water can leave your brakes wet and less effective, increasing your stopping distance. To dry them out, gently tap the brake pedal once you’re back on dry land. This friction helps evaporate any water that may have settled on the brake discs, allowing them to return to full function. Testing the brakes in a safe spot ensures they’re responsive when needed.<br /><h5>2. Inspect the Air Filter</h5>After driving through a flood, one of the first things to check is the air filter. If water has entered the air intake system, it can damage the engine. A soggy or dirty air filter should be replaced immediately to avoid contaminants entering the engine and causing performance issues later on.<br /><h5>3. Look for Signs of Water in the Engine</h5>If you suspect that water has entered the engine, especially if your vehicle stalled, resist the urge to restart the car. Instead, have the vehicle towed to a mechanic. Starting the engine with water inside can lead to hydrolock, where water in the cylinders causes the engine to seize, potentially requiring a costly engine replacement.<br /><h5>4. Thoroughly Clean the Undercarriage</h5>Floodwater is often filled with debris, dirt, and contaminants that can settle on your car’s undercarriage, leading to rust or corrosion over time. Once the water recedes, give your car a thorough wash, paying special attention to the underside. This will help prevent rust and other issues that could develop due to prolonged exposure to dirty water.<br /><h5>5. Monitor Electrical Components</h5>Flooding can wreak havoc on your car’s electrical systems. After driving through water, test all your vehicle's electronics — lights, indicators, power windows, and infotainment system. Water intrusion can cause malfunctions or short circuits, so if you notice any irregularities, have them inspected by a professional to prevent further issues.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114242444" title="Severe cyclone threat looms large near Chennai as IMD GFS predict landfall by Thursday!" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>By staying cautious during floods and following these post-care steps, you can keep your vehicle in good shape and avoid the worst of water damage.<br />

Rains forcing you to ride through waterlogged areas? Here’s how to safely traverse flooded roads and minimise damage to your vehicles

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Bank of America upgraded Johnson Controls to 'Buy' for its exposure to AI data centers.</li><li>Johnson Controls is a top provider of thermal cooling equipment and other data center solutions.</li></ul><p><a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/jci-stock">Johnson Controls</a> is the stock to buy for safe exposure to the AI boom, according to a note this week from <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/bac-stock">Bank of America.</a></p><p>The bank upgraded shares of Johnson Controls to "Buy" from "Neutral" and increased its price target to $80 from $76, representing potential upside of about 15% from where the stock was trading on Thursday. </p><p>The bank said the industrial company that sells everything from security cameras to HVAC systems offs investors exposure to "best-in-class data center assets."</p><p>"We find that JCI is the second-largest provider of thermal equipment (~15% market share), with leading market share in chillers. JCI also sells building automation systems, security, and fire protection equipment into data centers," Bank of America analyst Andrew Obin said.</p><p>Johnson Controls will generate about $4 billion in revenue from data centers this year, representing about 14% of its business. That is more than triple the data center exposure its closest competitors have, including <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/tt-stock">Trane Technologies</a> and <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/carr-stock">Carrier.</a></p><p>One of Johnson Controls' best-selling products to datacenters is liquid-cooling systems, which help distribute and offset <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-data-centers-us-power-grid-gpu-nvidia-cerebras-amazon-2024-7">the immense heat generated by AI-focused servers.</a></p><p>"One megawatt of power supplied to a data center requires approximately 285 tons of cooling, similar to the requirements for a 115,000 square foot commercial building," Obin explained.</p><p>And that's where Johnson Control's water-cooled centrifugal chiller and computer room air handling products come into play.</p><p>As for a potential catalyst for Johnson Controls, aside from its data center exposure, Bank of America highlighted its ongoing search for a new CEO.</p><p>"We expect a new CEO announcement before the end of the year and view this as a positive catalyst. Combined with activist investor involvement, we believe this potentially signals a new strategic direction for the company," Obin said.</p><p>Finally, Johnson Controls offers investors an appealing margin of safety relative to other AI stocks that have been high-fliers over the past year.</p><p>That's because Johnson Controls stock is trading at a significant valuation discount relative to its closest competitors. Its forward price-to-earnings ratio of 18x is even lower than the broader S&amp;P 500's valuation of about 21x.</p><p>"JCI hypothetically re-rating fully in line with the average of these HVAC peers would imply a 57% higher valuation," Obin said.</p><p>Shares of Johnson Controls have been on a tear this year as investors wake up to its AI data center exposure, with the stock up up 22% year-to-date.</p>

An under-the-radar industrial stock is a safe way to bet on the AI boom, Bank of America says

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Aluminum foil can be used in an air fryer, but it should only go in the basket.</li><li>Acidic foods react with aluminum, so avoid using foil when air frying tomatoes, peppers, or citrus.</li></ul><p>For many home cooks, the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/best-air-fryer">best air fryer</a> has joined the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/best-pressure-cooker-instant-pot">Instant Pot</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/best-kitchenaid">KitchenAid stand mixer</a> as a countertop essential. Whether you're cooking under a time crunch, have run out of oven space, or want a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/unique-recipes-to-make-in-air-fryer-from-experts-2022-1">healthier spin on a deep-fried recipe</a>, air fryers are handy.</p><p>As with other beloved kitchen tools, the first thing you should figure out is what can — and subsequently, <em>cannot</em> — go in an air fryer, including a common household item: aluminum foil.</p>We tested over 40 models for our <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/best-air-fryer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best air fryer</a> guide. Check out our favorites:<br /><br /><ul><li><strong>Best overall: </strong>Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven - <a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?h=a431c3d75a5e9914ebabdc79c197f4586342461a828b31adf81cdfc8e4c2a337&amp;postID=628f975fa2374776c7e8823e&amp;postSlug=guides%2Fkitchen%2Fcan-you-put-foil-in-air-fryer&amp;site=bi&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB096N28SZP" target="_blank" rel="noopener">See at Amazon</a></li><li><strong>Best value: </strong>Beautiful Touchscreen Air Fryer - <a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?h=c68ae6ee86eb370a810a43a6b53f8b87d1ac1142253f6f60dd668f326b3160dd&amp;postID=628f975fa2374776c7e8823e&amp;postSlug=guides%2Fkitchen%2Fcan-you-put-foil-in-air-fryer&amp;site=bi&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FBeautiful-6-Quart-Touchscreen-Air-Fryer-White-Icing-by-Drew-Barrymore%2F597932797" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">See at Walmart</a></li><li><strong>Best toaster oven: </strong>Oster Digital Air Fryer Oven with RapidCrisp - <a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?h=b61ea21404b6c4a01a8560dc31dbb4349e2fb9cac15b2690ea12a3ff2506ea0f&amp;postID=628f975fa2374776c7e8823e&amp;postSlug=guides%2Fkitchen%2Fcan-you-put-foil-in-air-fryer&amp;site=bi&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB08CNMX519" target="_blank" rel="noopener">See at Amazon</a></li></ul><h2><strong>How does an air fryer work? </strong></h2><p>According to chef Meredith Laurence of <a href="https://bluejeanchef.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blue Jean Chef</a>, an air fryer is simply a compact, countertop convection oven that crisps and browns food quickly. There is, however, one key difference between this appliance and a traditional oven.</p><p>"There's a fan that blows hot air right next to a heating element, while in a regular oven, a fan blows hot air all around, but it's not in direct relationship to the element," Laurence says. "So in an air fryer that convection cooking is way more intense and way more direct."</p><h2><strong>When to use foil in your air fryer</strong></h2><p><strong></strong></p><div type="image" title="The Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven with ClearCook, the best air fryer in 2023, is displayed on a kitchen counter." height="1005" width="1341" msid="107859438" hostid="261" sizebytes="86186"></div><p>There are two main reasons to use foil in your air fryer: simple clean-up and easy food removal.</p><p>Foil is particularly helpful when cooking items that may stick to the basket, such as meats, eggs, and breaded foods. You can simply lift these items out by the edges of the foil.</p><p>If you're cooking several batches of food, foil is a huge time saver. Keeping the basket clean means you don't have to stop to clean the air fryer between each batch.</p><h2><strong>How to use foil in your air fryer</strong></h2><p>"If you can put something in an oven, you can put it into an air fryer, " says Laurence — including aluminum foil. However, there are two golden rules:</p><ul><li>Only put the foil in the air fryer's basket, not the drawer. Otherwise, it could get blown around and cause a fire hazard.</li><li>Never preheat the air fryer with a foil-lined basket.</li></ul><p>Here are three tips for using aluminum foil in your air fryer safely and effectively: </p><ul><li><strong>Don't cover the holes.</strong> "You're really hindering the best effects of an air fryer when you cover those holes in the bottom of the basket," Laurence says. "They're there for a reason — to let the air really circulate perfectly around the whole entire surface of the food, including the bottom." </li><li><strong>Create a foil sling. </strong>Laurence suggests folding a long piece in half two times to create a narrow strip."I'll use that as handles to put something into the air fryer, and then I can just tuck those handles in, so that when the food is finished, I can then take those handles and pull the food out again."</li><li><strong>Crumble up the foil.</strong> Foil can also be used to bring food closer to the heating element. "If you're cooking a steak and you want to get a really brown crust, you could crumble up foil so that it's very uneven and then you could put that in the basket," she says. "You put the steak on top of that and it just elevates it a little bit closer to the element, so you can get a nicer brown on there."</li></ul><h2><strong>Avoid placing acidic foods on foil in your air fryer</strong></h2><h2><div type="image" title="Eleven Madison Park tomatoes" height="1000" width="1333" msid="107859442" hostid="261" sizebytes="95686"></div></h2><p>When you're using foil with any heating appliance, steer clear of highly acidic ingredients. "They react with the foil and start to break it down, so you'll actually have aluminum in your food," she says. "Aside from the fact that that's not palatable, it's also not very good for you." These foods should not go on aluminum foil in your air fryer:</p><ul><li>Tomatoes</li><li>Fruit, especially citrus</li><li>Peppers</li><li>Marinades that contain vinegar or lemon juice</li></ul><h2><strong>Aluminum foil vs. parchment paper vs. wax paper </strong></h2><p>Laurence recommends using <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/can-you-put-parchment-paper-in-an-air-fryer">parchment paper instead of foil</a> when possible since it's not a reactive surface and food is less likely to stick to the paper. "Always opt for parchment paper over foil, except when you want to elevate your food or if you're using that foil as a sling," Laurence says. </p><p>Parchment paper is better for the environment. Retailers even sell perforated parchment paper with circles specifically designed for air fryers. Just make sure never to use <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/wax-paper-vs-parchment-paper">wax paper in your air fryer</a> because it's heat-sensitive.</p><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/best-silicone-air-fryer-liners">Silicone air fryer liners</a> are another smart option. They are reusable, easy to clean, and unlikely to cause a fire hazard. If you like making eggs and other bite-sized treats in the air fryer, consider <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/best-air-fryer-egg-molds">air fryer egg molds</a>.</p><h2><strong>How to clean your air fryer</strong></h2><p>Always consult your user manual for the most accurate cleaning instructions. The user manual takes precedence over the tips we give here.</p><p>First, unplug your appliance and let it cool. Then, after each use, wash all removable accessories that come in contact with food. This might include the basket and drawer, which are usually dishwasher-safe or can be washed in warm, soapy water. Use a damp cloth or soft sponge to wipe down the interior and exterior regularly. Dry all items before using them again.</p><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/kitchen/how-to-clean-an-air-fryer">Check out our article about how to clean an air fryer for more details</a>.</p><h2><strong>Insider's takeaway</strong></h2><p>Putting foil in an air fryer is completely acceptable if you adhere to certain safety protocols. </p><p>But ultimately, foil isn't the ideal material for an air fryer. Perforated parchment paper, a silicone liner, or a bare basket are all better options.</p>

Yes, you can put foil in an air fryer — here's how to do it safely

<keyword id="22524198" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nonstick-cookware" source="keywords">Nonstick cookware</keyword> with its <keyword id="22334184" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Teflon" source="keywords">Teflon</keyword> coating has had a bad reputation since the early 2000s, cancer being one of its many alleged evils. And yet, not only is a nonstick pan found in almost every kitchen, it is also among the most-loved dishes to cook with — <em>who doesn’t like it when their dosa comes out perfectly crisp AND lifts off the tawa off its own accord without having to scrape? </em>But if recent news around the ‘<keyword id="22524197" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Teflon-flu" source="keywords">teflon flu</keyword>’ is having you eye your beloved nonstick rather suspiciously, we gotchu.<br /><br />According to a recent report, over 250 Americans were hospitalised last year due to a condition called ‘<keyword id="22541724" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="teflon-fever" source="Orion">Teflon fever</keyword>’, formally known as <keyword id="22541725" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="polymer-fume-fever" source="Orion">polymer fume fever</keyword>. Its symptoms range from mild flu-like symptoms such as headache and body aches to more severe conditions requiring medical attention.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="91352745" title="Healthy people are at-risk of liver disease from &amp;#39;forever chemicals&amp;#39; in takeout containers and non-stick pans, scientists say" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h2>What is Teflon flu?<br /></h2>Teflon, or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is a synthetic chemical that creates a non-stick surface on cookware. While convenient, it can pose <keyword id="19977451" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-risks" source="keywords">health risks</keyword> if mishandled. When Teflon-coated cookware is overheated — to above 500°F (or 260°C), the coating can deteriorate, releasing harmful fumes into the air. These fumes contain a complex mix of fluorinated substances that can cause flu-like symptoms when inhaled.<br /><br />While Teflon cookware is a common culprit, it's important to note that other sources can also lead to similar symptoms. For instance, people working in welding or metal-related industries are at risk of metal fume fever, caused by inhaling fumes from heated metals.<br /><br />Symptoms of both Teflon flu and metal fume fever can include fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, and muscle aches. And if you experience these symptoms after exposure to fumes, it's essential to seek medical attention.<br /><br /><h2>How to prevent Teflon flu?</h2>To minimise the risk of Teflon flu and prolong the life of your cookware, follow these guidelines:<br /><br /><strong>Avoid overheating!</strong><br />Teflon flu becomes a problem when the nonstick cookware is heated past the 260°C-mark. However, this is rare as the temperature most meats and other foods are looked at is 75°C or hotter. <br /><br />When cooking on a Teflon-coated pan, using medium or low heat is recommended to prevent high heat from damaging the coating and releasing harmful fumes. If you’re looking to broil or sear your food, then avoiding your nonstick and opting for an iron skillet instead is recommended.<br /><br />Also, never heat your nonstick without oil or food already in it to prevent overheating.<br /><br /><strong>Proper ventilation<br /></strong>To avoid inhaling any fumes that your Teflon-coated pan might be emanating, using the kitchen exhaust fan or opening the windows might be ideal.<br /><br /><strong>Utensil care<br /></strong>The other major concern with Teflon coating is that it has been linked to various health conditions upon ingestion. One must avoid scratching it and only use wooden or silicone spatulas on it. Metal utensils can damage the coating and increase the risk of overheating, as well!<br /><br /><strong>Gentle cleaning<br /></strong>Again, to avoid scratching your nonstick pan, wash it with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge is important. Abrasive scouring pads or steel wool are a big no on Teflon-coated cookware. You can consider soaking your nonstick for a bit in case of stubborn residue, but leaving it in water for a long time can damage its coating and shorten its lifespan over time. <br /><br /><strong>Replace when necessary<br /></strong>This is perhaps the most important point to note: throw away your pans if they start to peel, flake or chip and find a replacement.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="95388062" title="A single scratch on a Teflon nonstick pan can release thousands of microplastic particles, study suggests" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>While Teflon cookware is usually deemed safe when used properly, it's also versatile and relatively cheaper than cast iron and carbon utensils. But hey, if you’re still uncertain about good old nonstick, there’s plenty of other options to explore!<br />

You Searched For "Safe air" and got 10 results

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