The craze for air fryers continues to grip the nation, with an increasing number of people getting their hands on these handy kitchen devices.
For several years now, a significant number of people have been swapping their ovens for air fryers. These appliances often provide a healthier and faster method of cooking food, not to mention being more cost-effective to operate.
However, an appliance specialist from AO.com warns that Brits are reducing the lifespan of their cherished air fryers – and even creating fire risks – by placing inappropriate foods in their machines.
Jay Lockton suggests that people are jeopardising their devices and their family’s safety by putting food in the air fryer that shouldn’t be there.
This comes as data from AO.com revealed that Brits have selected air fryers as their most loved kitchen appliance – surpassing kitchen mainstays such as the oven, kettle and microwave, reports Leicestershire Live.
Nevertheless, many are still unaware that certain foods should be kept well clear of your air fryer – including one that could potentially cause a fire.
The expert advises that if you want to keep your home and air fryer safe, you should avoid cooking popcorn in it. This could actually pose a fire risk, as kernels may blow around and burn, so stick to your hob or microwave for this.
To assist people in maintaining their air fryers and extending their lifespan, Jay has listed four other popular foods that should be kept at a distance from your devices.
Cheese
Cheese could pose a problem for your air fryer, as the melted cheese can lead to a significant clean-up task and might even block the fan in your device. Be cautious about when you add the cheese to prevent it from burning onto the air fryer.
High sugar sauces
Sauces with a high sugar content, such as barbecue or sweet chilli, can cause serious issues for your air fryer, as they will caramelise (and potentially burn) much quicker. To help keep the air fryer clean, add sauces after cooking.
Spinach
Leafy greens like spinach are not compatible with the air fryer and shouldn’t be cooked using one. Due to the high-speed airflow technology, they can fly around, leading to potential burning or uneven cooking.
Kale chips are safe – provided you add plenty of oil to prevent them from being blown around inside the appliance.
Pasta, rice and raw grains
This might seem obvious, but raw pasta, rice or grains won’t cook properly in your air fryer unless they have been pre-cooked.