Expert issues warning to air fryer users over 'common' mistake

If you're one of the thousands of people who loves their air fryer, an expert has a warning for you about a particularly 'common' mistake.

The humble air fryer has become the must-have gadget for households across the UK, with many choosing it as a healthier option than an oven or grill.

After all, if you scroll through TikTok or Instagram, there are thousands of recipes using an air fryer that are touted as being the healthiest way of cooking.

While it's true that switching a deep fat fryer for an air fryer will have big health benefits, it shouldn't be used for every single meal to make a beige buffet.

There's nothing wrong with an occasional 'British tapas' meal of potato smiles and chicken nuggets, but it's important to try and have a balanced diet.

Many people swear by their trusty air-fryers (Grace Cary/Getty Images)

Air fryer expert and cookbook author Clare Andrews recently talked about her experiences with the kitchen gizmo and gave a warning.

She started creating recipes in 2020 after she was gifted an air fryer, and fans soon flocked to learn her ways. Now, she wants to address a mistake many make about what they assume air fryers are good for, breaking the 'common myth' that air fried automatically equals healthy.

She told the Daily Record: "While air frying can of course reduce the fat and calorie content of food compared to cooking with a deep fat fryer, it doesn't automatically make all the food you cook in your air fryer healthy.

"It still depends on the ingredients and the type of food being cooked. So, just be aware of the amount of oil you use (if any) and the type of foods you cook in yours, maybe stay away from breaded and frozen ultra-processed food, and swap for some more fresh ingredients, such as salmon steaks, chicken breasts and even halloumi and tofu."

She also says it's vital to do your research before buying an air fryer.

Not everything is as healthy as you might think (MarioGuti/Getty Images)

Some models are massive and will take up your entire kitchen counter, while some newer models are designed to be space saving and suitable for a single person or a couple.

She said: "Take the time to check out the size of each model, and make sure that it fits well in your kitchen. Think about counter space before you buy, your air fryer ideally needs 10 cm space around it, so it doesn’t overheat.

"There really are so many on the market now and the cost can be quite steep. It’s an investment for sure, but well worth it in my opinion. The air fryer can save you time and money off your electricity bill, what’s not to love?

"So many friends and family members, who have been reluctant to invest in an air fryer, when finally purchased have said WOW, I was so scared of using mine as I had no idea how to use it, or if I’d even use it! But when they started on their air fryer cooking journey, they couldn’t believe the results, and most don’t even turn their oven on now."