Why are air fryers suddenly so popular?

Author: Noel Reynolds V  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 24, 2025

The pandemic made people cook from home more One of the reasons for the popularity is the pandemic. It led to more people cooking from home, and a knock-on effect was a rise in the purchase of more specialized appliances. As people bought more things and created food at home, the air fryer became more popular.

Why are air fryers so popular now?

Air fryers offer greater convenience, with average cooking times reduced by 20-25%. They use far less cooking oil, which brings with it a number of associated health benefits. And they use less energy than standard ovens too, at a time when households are looking for ways to navigate the rising cost of utilities.

Why are so many people selling their air fryers?

People are 'ditching' their air fryers for a 'much cheaper alternative' they say gives 'fantastic results'. On Amazon, thousands of shoppers are heaping praise on an 'affordable' halogen oven that promises to save you money on your energy bills.

Why is everyone talking about air fryers?

It can effectively produce the texture of deep-fried food without the oil. Using a circulation of hot air, air fryers can cook foods evenly to your desired consistency very quickly.

When did the air fryer trend start?

That parade of innovation continues today, thanks to the diminutive countertop convection ovens that have earned a place in the majority of American kitchens. I speak, of course, of the air fryer. Though it was invented all the way back in 2010, it did not really become popular until 2017.

The TRUTH about Air Fryers

What are the negatives of cooking in an air fryer?

Drawbacks of Air Fryers
  • Limited Cooking Capacity: While air fryers are convenient for small households or individuals, their cooking capacity can be a drawback for larger families or gatherings. ...
  • Uneven Cooking: ...
  • Limited Food Options: ...
  • Initial Cost and Counter Space:

Why are people getting rid of air fryers?

While air fryers are popular, the most expensive models can start to get a little pricey, which could undermine their status as a budget item. Taking to social media to share their opinions, many people have revealed that they reckon halogen ovens are the best option for frugal cooking.

What is the controversy with air fryers?

Air-frying equipment is not known to cause cancer, but the process of air frying does result in the formation of certain compounds, like acrylamide, that are linked to cancer development. Acrylamide is classified as a probable human carcinogen.

What does Gordon Ramsay say about air fryers?

First off, let me tell you, I love a good gadget in the kitchen. Anything that makes my life easier and helps me whip up delicious dishes in half the time is a winner in my book. And that's where air fryers come in. These little beauties are like having a mini kitchen wizard right on your countertop.

Why don t chefs like air fryers?

Air Fryers Reduce Taste Quality

Out of the top three reasons restaurants don't use air fryers, the taste is the leading cause. It has numerous benefits and can cook food efficiently. However, the taste can be subpar compared to other cooking methods available at the commercial level.

What are people replacing their air fryers with?

A countertop oven is a quick fix

That's a big difference — I can be done eating my leftover-but-perfectly-heated pizza in those 10 minutes! Experts have pointers for determining whether your olive oil carries the health benefits you're looking for.

What cannot be cooked in an air fryer?

Grace Forell - What You Shouldn't Put in an Air Fryer
  1. Broccoli. This vegetable in particular isn't great because it's so easy to get wrong. ...
  2. Pasta. ...
  3. Popcorn. ...
  4. Wet Batter. ...
  5. Rice.

What to avoid when buying an air fryer?

Air fryer buying mistakes – appliance experts reveal 4 errors to...
  • Going too big or too small.
  • Not prioritizing ease of use.
  • Disregarding cleaning and maintenance.
  • Overlooking multifunctionality.

Is it really worth buying an air fryer?

It depends on the needs of your household and how you like to cook. You can do everything an air fryer does with minimal equipment and a regular home range. However, if you're a household with some extra counter space that benefits from cooking in smaller batches, an air fryer can be useful.

Why does air fryer food taste weird?

This can occur if the air fryer is not properly cleaned before use, which may lead to a plastic taste in your food. Residual oils and food particles can also produce unpleasant odors and may damage your air fryer over time.

Is there a downside to air fryers?

High Cholesterol and Fat Content

It is often stated that air fryers use less oil in the cooking process which makes them inherently healthier than other cooking methods. However, air fryers can still produce high-fat and high-cholesterol foods if not used appropriately.

Why I don t use air fryer?

I find the texture of most air-fried food a bit off-putting

Air fryers are advertised as a healthier cooking option, mostly because they don't require a lot of oil. But fat has a big impact on the texture of foods. I've found that the appliance typically produces dishes that are more dry than crisp.

What do pro chefs think of air fryers?

It's just less intimidating", Poppy said. Poppy described air fryers as "revolutionary", and "brilliant", saying "it's just a drawer" and "because it's so small and contained it's just easier".

Why are air fryers banned in college?

Fire hazards are often a major concern with air fryers and so they may be prohibited from dorms unless used in the kitchen. Air fryers cook food much faster than a traditional oven or toaster, allowing college students to quickly prepare a meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

What is the bad material in air fryers?

Some air fryers may contain BPA in their plastic components, which can leach into food and pose health risks. To avoid this, opt for air fryers made with BPA-free materials. Additionally, be cautious of other harmful materials like lead or cadmium, which can sometimes be found in lower-quality models.

Is an air fryer just a glorified toaster oven?

Essentially, an air fryer is a smaller, more portable convection oven. Instead of being shaped like a toaster oven, many air fryers are tall, sort of resembling a coffeemaker. It has a removable bucket with a handle, and inside that bucket fits a removable basket. This basket is where the food goes.

What are people buying instead of an air fryer?

Toaster ovens: Toaster ovens can bake, broil, roast, and toast. In our tests, they heated food quickly and evenly and were great for leftovers. Toaster ovens are typically more petite than air fryer toaster ovens, making them a good fit for small kitchens.

Why are people dumping their air fryers?

People are swapping their air fryers after discovering a better and cheaper alternative. Not too long ago, air fryers became a bit of an obsession, promising a cheaper and healthier way to cook food.

What is better than air fryers?

Cooking times: Instant Pots can often prepare food more quickly than air fryers. Food choices: Although both small kitchen appliances can prepare a wide range of foods, Instant Pots offer more recipe options. Ease of use: Air fryers are good for beginners, while Instant Pots have a learning curve.

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