Expert Reveals Just How Dangerous Air Fryers Can Be If People Are Using Them Wrong

An expert has warned how air fryers can become dangerous if they’re not being used properly.

These appliances have earned their spot as a kitchen essential, and it’s easy to see why so many people love them.

They allow users to cook a wide range of dishes with ease, and their ability to speed up cooking times is an added bonus.

Another great advantage of air fryers is that they are more cost-effective than traditional ovens and microwaves. They make it possible to prepare a variety of meals without spending too much on energy or the appliance itself.

People find them so convenient that they often bring them along when traveling, and they’ve even become a go-to tool for cooking large holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

With so many uses, it’s no wonder air fryers have become a household favorite.

Air fryers can be dangerous Getty Stock Images

Despite their many benefits, you might not fully understand how air fryers work - or the fact that using them incorrectly could have negative effects on your health.

These appliances function by rapidly circulating hot air to cook food. So while your roast potatoes might come out crispy and delicious, they haven’t actually been fried in the traditional sense.

Because of this, air fryers are often marketed as a healthier cooking option. However, if not used properly, one doctor warns that they might actually pose potential health risks.

A UK-based GP has shed light on the importance of properly cleaning and maintaining air fryers to ensure they remain safe to use.

Dr. Karan Rajan took to TikTok to explain that the inside of many air fryers is coated with a substance known as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

PFAS are a class of chemicals commonly found in everyday products, including food packaging, toiletries, non-stick cookware, and even carpets.

According to the American Cancer Society, PFAS are a potential health concern.

These chemicals do not break down easily, meaning they can persist in the environment and within the human body for long periods.

"There are many PFAS, but the ones that have been made and used the most in the United States are PFOA and PFOS," they explain.

"While these two chemicals are no longer made in the US, people can still be exposed to them."

The American Cancer Society further explains that studies conducted on lab animals have shown that exposure to PFOA can lead to a higher risk of developing certain tumors, particularly in the liver, testicles, breast, and pancreas.

"Other studies have suggested possible links to other cancers, including prostate, bladder, breast, and ovarian cancer. But not all studies have found such links, and more research is needed to clarify these findings," they add.

Dr. Karan clarified that potential health concerns mainly arise when an air fryer is damaged.

"As long as you don't plan on eating the lining of your air fryer you will be fine," he said.

"And if you're really worried about the non-stick coating you can use a ceramic or stainless steel air fryer."

To minimize any risks, it’s best to be careful when cooking and cleaning your air fryer.

Scratching the surface can lead to the coating breaking down, which could end up in your food.