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If you’re on the fence about air frying, then this comprehensive guide is for you! In it, I will discuss air fryer pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this appliance is right for you.
I’ll also provide some tips on how to get the most out of your air fryer. So, whether you’re already a fan of air frying or are just starting to explore this option, read on for more information!
How does an air fryer work?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it. So, it’s not really “frying”, per se. It works by drawing air from the outside and heating it up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before circulating it around the food. This circulation of hot air allows the food to cook evenly on all sides, resulting in a crispy and delicious final product.
While air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, there are both pros and cons to using this type of small appliance. Some people find that air fryers produce food that is just as good as deep-fried food, but without all of the trans fats.
Others find that air fryers can be tricky to use and often result in unevenly cooked food. Ultimately, whether or not an air fryer is the right choice for you depends on your individual cooking needs and preferences. Let’s check out some air fryer benefits for health.
Are air fryers healthy?
Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, and it’s no wonder why. They offer a healthier alternative to deep frying, and can be used to cook a variety of foods. But are air fryers actually healthy?
There are some air fryer pros and cons to consider. On the plus side, air fryers use less oil than traditional deep fryers. This means that food cooked in an air fryer is generally lower in trans fats. Additionally, air fryers can be used to cook a variety of foods – not just fried chicken or French fries. You can use an air fryer to roast vegetables, bake desserts, and even grill meat.
Deep frying vs air frying
When oil is heated at high temperatures, some reactions produce certain degradation compounds. Researchers have shown that these products (which are the result of oils heated for long periods under extremely high temperatures) contain more than 50% polar compounds, which in turn are the products of the breakdown of fats.
Polar compounds are associated with metabolic changes related to an increased risk of cancer, decrease in liver and kidney size, malabsorption and reduced fertility, among other health hazards.
Another toxic contaminant found in heat-treated foods is acrylamide. It is commonly present in foods high in carbohydrates that are processed at high temperatures(>120°C)–like French Fries. Acrylamide may damage DNA and neurons, and has been related to the development of cancer. The dietary exposure of the population to acrylamide is a human health concern.
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, acrylamide may have links to the development of some cancers, such as endometrial, ovarian, pancreatic, breast, and esophageal cancer.
By switching to air frying vs deep frying, people can reduce their exposure to acrylamide in their food.
Are air fryers cancerous?
Many clients have asked me: “Are air fryers harmful to your health?” This is a very common question. However, air fryers don’t cause cancer by themselves. This concern is related to the risk of formation of HCA and PAH in cooked meats.
According to the National Cancer Institute, “Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are chemicals formed when muscle meat, including beef, pork, fish, or poultry, is cooked using high-temperature methods, such as pan frying or grilling directly over an open flame.”
In laboratory experiments, HCAs and PAHs have been found to cause changes in DNA that may increase the risk of cancer.
Whatever the type of meat, if it’s cooked at high temperatures(above 300 ºF , like grilling or pan frying), or cooked for a long time, HCAs may form. For example, well-done, grilled, or barbecued chicken and steak all have high concentrations of HCAs.
Likewise, cooking methods that expose meat to smoke contribute to PAH formation.
Repeatedly heating cooking oil (no matter how much the quantity) results in the formation of PAHs. Which is why it’s always a good idea to regularly clean your air fryer in order to avoid reheating the residual fats or oils that may collect under the basket.
Although a definitive link between HCA and PAH exposure from cooked meats and cancer in humans hasn’t been clearly established, and no federal guidelines address the consumption of foods containing HCAs and PAHs, avoiding prolonged cooking times (especially at high temperatures) can help reduce the formation of these compounds.
In short, although there is no evidence that air fryers are directly associated with an increased risk of cancer, you may want to avoid cooking meats in it at high temperatures for prolonged periods of time. For more information on HCAs and PAHs, click here.
Air fryer pros
In this section, we’ll take a look at what are the advantages and disadvantages of an air fryer. Let’s check it out.
Easy to use
One of the air fryer pros is that they are very easy to use. You simply need to add your food to the air fryer basket, set the timer, and let it do its job. There is no need to watch over the food too closely as it cooks (sometimes you may have to flip or shake the ingredients mid-way through the cooking process), making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Easy to clean
Air fryers very easy to clean. Most air fryer models have removable parts that can be washed in the dishwasher, and the inside of the air fryer can usually be wiped down with a damp cloth. This is a big improvement over traditional ovens, which can be very difficult to clean properly.
There’s also no need to pour out large amounts of oil prior to cleaning, like with deep fryers. Plus, air fryers typically have non-stick surfaces, so there’s no need to scrub away at stubborn bits of food.
Faster cooking
One of the biggest air fryer pros is that they cook food quickly. If you’re short on time, an air fryer can be a real lifesaver. You can pop your food in the air fryer and have it cooked in minutes, which is great for busy weeknights.
Some air fryers also have the ability to grill, bake, or even roast food quickly and conveniently. They also don’t generate as much heat as an oven cooked meal, which is especially helpful during the hot summer months.
Less oil
One of the biggest advantages and selling points of air fryers is that they use much less oil than traditional frying methods. This means that you can reduce your intake of trans fats, which have been linked to heart disease and other health problems.
Trans fats can raise your bad (LDL) cholesterol levels and lower your good (HDL) cholesterol levels. They’re also associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Great for reheating food
Air fryers are also great for reheating leftovers. I personally find that this works especially well on foods that have a crunchy texture. I also find this feature useful for serving at parties or other events.
Have leftovers from last night’s dinner that you want to eat for lunch? No problem! Just pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes, and they’ll be hot and delicious. You can also use your air fryer to reheat frozen foods, like chicken nuggets or French fries.
Versatility
Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep frying, and they’re much more versatile than people realize. Sure, they’re great for making crispy French fries and air fried chicken wings, but they can also be used to roast vegetables, bake cookies, or even grill steak. In other words, an air fryer is the perfect tool for anyone who loves to cook.
And because air fryers cook food so quickly, they’re ideal for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen. In terms of air fryer pros and cons, you can’t beat the time they help you save in the kitchen.
Energy efficiency
While they offer many benefits, some people worry about the amount of electricity used, when weighing air fryer pros and cons.
Air fryers use less energy than traditional ovens. The wattage for air fryers varies, and larger models will use more energy, but a standard 4-quart fryer uses about 1,500 watts.
In addition, air fryers generally cook foods much faster than traditional gas or electric stoves. This is often done in about half the time it takes to make a similar recipe in a conventional oven.
In general, air fryers are a more energy efficient way to cook than traditional ovens. They use less energy and produce less heat, so they’re perfect for small kitchens or homes without air conditioning. If you’re looking for a way to save money on your electric bill, an air fryer is a good investment.
Air fryer cons
What are the disadvantages of air fryers? This is what this next section will cover.
Limited cooking capacity
When considering air fryer pros and cons, size matters. One of the biggest drawbacks is that air fryers generally have a limited cooking capacity. Most air fryers can only accommodate a few servings at a time, so they may not be ideal for a large family or groups.
This means that if you want to cook a large meal, you might have to use multiple air fryers or cook the food in batches.
In general, an air fryer with a capacity of 4 quarts is suitable for 4 people. However, the size you choose will depend on the frequency of use, and the type amounts of foods you plan to cook with it.
Not all foods are suitable for air frying
This means that some air-fried foods can be overcooked or burnt more easily than when cooked in a traditional oven. Additionally, air fryers may not be able to cook food as evenly as a traditional oven. Wet battered foods are also unsuitable since the force of the hot air can cause splattering
Cooking with an air fryer may have a learning curve in terms of cooking with different food and modes. It’s important to read the instructions booklet before you attempt any recipes and stick to the air fryer recipes suggested until you get more practiced.
Counter space
Air fryers can take up counter space depending on the size. They may require a fair amount of counter space and can be bulky and difficult to store. This can be a problem for those who have limited counter space in their kitchen.
Price
Air fryers can cost anywhere from $30 to $200, depending on the features and brand. Most of the best models are an investment if you are on a tight budget.
Here are some air fryer options you can order online, at different price points.
Conclusion
Air fryers are all the rage right now, and for good reason. They’re a healthy way to cook your food with little to no added oil, and they produce crispy results that taste great. But like any kitchen appliance, there are pros and cons to air frying.
So before you run out and buy one, take a moment to consider these air fryer pros and cons so you can decide if this appliance is the right fit for your needs.
I hope this article has helped you make up your mind about whether or not an air fryer is right for you! What do you think? Are air fryers worth the hype?
Hi! I’m Melissa, Registered Dietitian and mother of two dragons. When I’m not talking nutrition you can find me rolling around the floor with my kids, sewing, crafting, cooking or missing the 90s (seriously, music just isn’t the same). Read More…
