Air fryers have quickly become a staple in modern kitchens, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods by using minimal oil. The gadget works by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. However, concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with air fryers, particularly regarding the materials used in their construction.
Addressing these concerns, Dr. Karan Raj recently took to social media to clarify that health issues related to air fryers only arise if the device is damaged. He emphasized the importance of proper maintenance and cleaning to preserve the air fryer’s non-stick surface, which is often made from materials like Teflon, sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals.”
“The biggest worry from fear mongers centers around the non-stick materials used, also known as forever chemicals. In less scientific terms, proprietary materials like Teflon,” Dr. Raj explained. He reassured users that the risk of toxic chemicals leaching into food is minimal as long as the non-stick surface remains intact. “So as long as you don’t plan to eat the lining of your air fryer, you’ll be fine,” he added.
Dr. Raj advised users to minimize damage to the non-stick coating by using wooden or silicone utensils instead of metal ones and to avoid abrasive scrubbing tools during cleaning. He also suggested considering ceramic or stainless steel air fryers for those particularly concerned about non-stick coatings.
Dr. Raj’s post sparked a lively discussion online, with many users sharing their thoughts and tips. One user commented, “If the Teflon doesn’t kill you, the 99 million other things you’ve surrounded yourself with probably will.” Another quipped, “My personal strategy to avoid problems from micro plastics is eating so much other plastic that the amount of micro plastics from the air are negligible.”
Others offered practical advice, such as using paper coffee filters instead of silicone liners to catch excess oils, reducing the need for frequent washing. “99% of the time we don’t even have to wash it, just a quick wipe with a damp cloth,” shared one commenter. Another person added, “Always be sure to unplug your air fryer afterwards to avoid accidental fires.”
Dr. Raj concluded his advice by encouraging people to “continue to responsibly enjoy your air fried goods,” while keeping in mind the importance of proper usage and maintenance.
