Air Fryer Alert: 5 Foods You Should NEVER Cook in Your Air Fryer
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering crispy, low-oil alternatives to deep frying. But culinary experts warn: not everything belongs in the air fryer—and some foods could even be dangerous. . Source : USA TODAY LATEST NEWS
🚫 1. Popcorn – A Fire Hazard
Those unpopped kernels can get stuck in heating elements, potentially causing smoke or even a fire. Stick to the microwave or stovetop for this snack.
🚫 2. Wet Batters (Fried Chicken, Tempura)
Air fryers can’t reach the high oil temps needed for proper crispiness, leaving you with a soggy, uneven mess. Deep frying or oven-baking works better.
❌ 3. Leafy Greens (Kale, Spinach)
Lightweight greens can fly around the basket, burning or blocking airflow—resulting in uneven cooking or even a smoky kitchen.
⚠️ 4. Cheese (Unless You Want a Melted Disaster)
Cheese can drip through the basket, creating a sticky, hard-to-clean mess (or worse, smoking up your appliance).
🥔 5. Whole Potatoes (Without Precooking)
A raw whole potato won’t cook evenly inside. For the best “baked” potato, microwave first, then air-fry to crisp the skin. Source : USA TODAY LATEST NEWS 2025
💡 Expert Tip: Is Your Air Fryer Really Saving Money?
- Martin Lewis (Money Saving Expert):“For small meals, air fryers save energy. But cooking multiple batches? An oven might be cheaper.”
- Which? Magazine:“Large families may find air fryers less efficient than ovens for big meals.”
😆 Air Fryer Fanatics Won’t Stop
Despite the warnings, some swear by their appliance:
“I’d air-fry a cup of tea if I could!” – One devoted fan.
What’s your take?
🔥 Team Air Fryer – or – 🍳 Team Oven?
Comment & share with friends who need to know!
. source: World Info Organization 2025