Air fryers have become one of the most used kitchen appliances, with around 65% of UK households now owning one. But with their popularity comes growing questions: are they really as healthy and safe as they are thought to be?
The debate was also fueled by Gemma Collins' statement, who claimed she had removed the appliance because it "sucked oxygen" out of the kitchen - an idea that experts and manufacturers dismissed.
How does an air fryer work?
Essentially, an air fryer is a small oven with powerful ventilation. It uses very hot air that circulates rapidly around food, cooking it evenly and creating a crispy, fry-like surface.
This process also causes the so-called Maillard reaction, which gives food its golden color and characteristic flavor of baking or frying.
Are they healthier?
Compared to deep frying, air fryers use little or no oil, which significantly reduces fat and calories. This may help reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease.
However, experts emphasize an important point:
It's not the appliance that makes food healthy, but what you cook.
Foods like french fries, nuggets, or sausages remain unhealthy even if prepared in an air fryer. While choices like vegetables, fish, or lean meat are better alternatives.
Are there any risks?
Yes – although often considered safe, air fryers are not without risks.
Cooking at high temperatures can create acrylamide, a substance linked to potential carcinogenic risk, especially in starchy foods like potatoes.
The risk increases when food is burned or overcooked.
Some models with technical defects have also posed a fire hazard.
Also, like any cooking appliance, they can release very fine particles into the air during use, which can affect indoor air quality – especially if the kitchen is not well ventilated.
What about materials and chemicals?
Most air fryers have non-stick coatings like Teflon (PTFE), which is considered safe at normal cooking temperatures. But at very high temperatures it can degrade and release gases.
Newer models usually avoid controversial substances like PFAS or PFOA, but experts recommend choosing quality products and regular maintenance.
What should not be cooked?
Air fryers are not suitable for every food:
Very liquid doughs or soups
Foods that release a lot of fat
Large pieces of meat that don't cook evenly
Cheap cheese that melts and flows
They work best with dry or lightly oiled foods, where air can circulate freely.
Air fryers may be a healthier alternative to traditional frying, but they are not a magic bullet. The benefits depend on the food choices and how you use them.
In short: the device helps, but your diet and habits are what make the difference. /GazetaExpress/
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