Air fryer owners warned to never cook certain foods in them – including one ‘fire hazard’ dish

Air fryer owners have been issued a warning regarding certain foods they should never cook in their appliances, with one particular dish labelled as a ‘fire hazard.’ The air fryer trend has taken the nation by storm, with more and more people opting for these convenient kitchen gadgets over traditional ovens. These devices offer a healthier and quicker cooking method, as well as being more cost-effective to run. However, an expert from AO.com has cautioned that individuals are shortening the lifespan of their air fryers and potentially putting their safety at risk by cooking inappropriate foods in them.

Jay Lockton from AO.com highlighted that people are unknowingly jeopardising their appliances and their family’s safety by using unsuitable foods in their air fryers. Despite the increasing popularity of air fryers, many users remain unaware that certain foods should never be introduced into their devices, including one dish that could potentially lead to a fire. Specifically, it is advised to refrain from cooking popcorn in the air fryer due to the risk of kernels blowing around and causing burns. It is recommended to stick to using a hob or microwave for popcorn preparation to avoid any fire hazards.

To help users maintain their air fryers and prolong their lifespan, Jay has listed four other common foods that should be avoided in these appliances. Firstly, cheese can lead to a messy cleanup task and potentially block the fan in the air fryer due to melted cheese. Users are urged to be cautious about when they add cheese to prevent it from burning onto the appliance. Additionally, sauces with high sugar content, such as barbecue or sweet chilli sauce, can quickly caramelise and burn in the air fryer, causing complications. Adding these sauces after cooking can help keep the appliance clean.

Furthermore, leafy greens like spinach are not compatible with air fryers as the high-speed airflow may cause them to fly around, leading to uneven cooking or burning. While kale chips are deemed safe to cook in an air fryer, it is recommended to add plenty of oil to prevent them from being blown around inside the appliance. Lastly, raw pasta, rice, or grains will not cook properly in an air fryer unless they have been pre-cooked. By avoiding these foods, users can ensure the safe and efficient operation of their air fryers.

In conclusion, while air fryers offer a convenient and efficient cooking solution, it is essential for users to be mindful of the foods they cook in these appliances to prevent damage and potential safety hazards. By following expert advice and avoiding certain foods, air fryer owners can enjoy the benefits of their devices for longer periods while ensuring a safe cooking environment in their homes.