The air fryer boom: Do air fryers pose health risks?

Sales of this appliance are soaring worldwide. It was a hit in Argentina in 2024. Are they really good for your health? 📢Experts weigh in.

In 2024, air fryers were the star product of appliance retailers. In-person and online sales climbed like never beforeMercado Libre reported that demand for deep fryers increased 297% compared to 2023, with significant sales peaks during Cyber ​​Monday, Hot Sale, and Mother's Day. A true boom.

The famous electric oven, which works with hot air circulation and allows you to “fry without oil”It's one of the most sought-after restaurants by consumers and endorsed by celebrities. But is it really healthy to cook there? What should be taken into account to optimize its use?

There are different models and they vary in capacity. Prices range from 90 to 300 pesos, depending on the brand and features.

The capital consulted with two specialists, the professor and doctor Liliana De Luise Director of the Master's Degree in Food Security Policy and Management, Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of the Universidad Nacional de Rosario and the professor and Magister Nicolás Yoncheff, coordinator of the same Master's degree.

Air fryers are gaining popularity as a healthier cooking option compared to traditional frying. How exactly do these devices work?

“Air fryers are appliances designed to cook food by circulating hot air. "They basically work like a convection oven, distributing heat evenly and achieving a crispy effect similar to traditional frying, with much less oil. This method significantly reduces the amount of fat in foods, making them attractive to those looking for healthier options without sacrificing a golden, crispy texture," said the professionals consulted.

From a nutritional point of view, do they represent an advantage over conventional frying?

Definitely. By using little or no oil, foods prepared in an air fryer have a lower content of saturated fat (bad fats) and calories. This can help prevent cardiovascular disease and contribute to weight control. Furthermore, by reducing contact with large amounts of hot oil, lipid (fat) absorption is minimized, which is an important health benefit. On the other hand, this method also helps preserve certain nutrients, as cooking is faster and doesn't involve the leaching (migration of nutrients from the food into the water) of vitamins and minerals in liquids, as occurs with boiling. However, it's important to note that reducing oil use doesn't mean any food prepared in an air fryer is automatically healthy. It all depends on the ingredients and the balance within a varied diet.

Are there any risks associated with its use? Is there anything consumers should be aware of? take into account?

Yes, there are some things to consider. While air frying may be a healthier option, cooking at high temperatures can promote the formation of acrylamide, a potentially harmful compound produced in starchy foods, such as potatoes (which are the most common food cooked in this fryer). This is a problem that also occurs with other cooking methods, such as baking or traditional frying, but it's still important to limit the consumption of highly processed foods and cook them at appropriate temperatures. Additionally, some people may notice differences in the texture and flavor of food compared to conventional frying. While air frying achieves a good browning, it doesn't always achieve the same crispy coating that oil creates.

Are they affordable? Can you prepare enough food for a family?

Some models can be expensive, and their capacity is often quite limited for large families. Another point is that the fan's noise can be annoying for some users.

How important is air fryer maintenance?

This is key, both for food safety (the safety of the food being cooked) and for the durability of the appliance. If not properly cleaned after each use, food scraps and grease buildup can become a breeding ground for bacteria and affect the flavor of the preparations. We recommend cleaning the interior and removable parts with warm water and mild detergent after each use. In addition, it's a good idea to periodically perform a more thorough cleaning of the appliance's interior and, above all, check that the fan is free of obstructions. This not only ensures hygiene but also prevents technical failures and prolongs the device's lifespan.

Would you recommend them as a healthy option?

Yes, but with nuances. They're an excellent alternative for reducing fat consumption and preparing meals more efficiently, but they're not a magic bullet for healthy eating. It all depends on the type of food being cooked and how it's incorporated into a balanced diet. If used in moderation, alongside other healthy cooking methods, and the equipment is properly maintained, they can be a very useful tool in the modern kitchen.