Air Fryers: Killing Bacteria Or Just Frying?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and ability to create crispy, fried foods with less oil. However, concerns have been raised about their effectiveness in killing bacteria, such as Salmonella, which can cause foodborne illnesses. While air fryers can reach temperatures that instantly kill Salmonella, the risk of cross-contamination remains if the appliance is not cleaned properly. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and maintain the air fryer's performance and longevity.

Salmonella and other bacteria

Salmonella is a pathogenic bacteria that can cause food poisoning and, in rare cases, even death. It is one of the most well-known harmful bacteria, along with E. coli and Listeria. Salmonella is often associated with the consumption of raw or undercooked chicken, but it can also be contracted through other contaminated food or water, contact with infected animals, or by breathing in contaminated air.

Air fryers are effective at killing bacteria, including Salmonella, due to the high temperatures they reach and the exposure to ultraviolet light. The typical temperature range of air fryers is well above the 72°C/162°F required for pasteurisation, a process that kills most harmful bacteria. In fact, air fryers can reach temperatures of 200°C/392°F, which is sufficient to sterilise food and kill almost all bacteria.

However, it is important to ensure that food is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 74°C/165°F to ensure that all harmful bacteria are killed. This is because bacteria can be present in different parts of the food, and air may not be able to circulate around the food evenly. Therefore, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the food, especially when cooking meat. Additionally, flipping the food or shaking the air fryer basket during the cooking process can help ensure even cooking and reduce the risk of bacteria surviving in uncooked areas.

While air fryers are effective at killing bacteria, they may not be suitable for cooking large quantities of food at once. This is because air fryers work best when there is adequate heat circulation, so it is recommended to not fill the air fryer more than halfway full. For larger quantities of food, alternative cooking methods such as using an oven, sous vide, or boiling may be more suitable.

Non-stick coatings and health

Non-stick coatings, such as Teflon, are made from a chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This synthetic chemical, composed of carbon and fluorine atoms, provides a non-reactive, non-stick, and almost frictionless surface. Non-stick coatings are popular as they are convenient, easy to clean, and require little oil or butter, making them a low-fat way to cook.

However, concerns have been raised about the safety of non-stick coatings, particularly regarding the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which was previously used in the production of Teflon. While PFOA has been eliminated from Teflon products since 2013, investigations are ongoing into other components, such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroakyl substances), which may pose potential health risks.

The potential health risks associated with non-stick coatings include:

• The release of toxic fumes when heated above 500°F (260°C). Inhaling these fumes can lead to polymer fume fever, or "Teflon flu," causing temporary flu-like symptoms. In more severe cases, lung damage has also been reported.
• Exposure to PFOA has been linked to various health conditions, including thyroid disorders, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, testicular cancer, infertility, and low birth weight.
• Interference with metabolic rates, potentially leading to weight gain.
• High levels of PFAS have been found in children with behaviour and conduct problems (ADHD).
• Accumulation in the environment, impacting abnormal thyroid and hormone function, reduced immune system response, and cancer.

To minimise the potential risks associated with non-stick coatings, it is recommended to:

• Avoid overheating non-stick cookware. Do not preheat an empty pan, and cook on medium or low heat.
• Use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils to prevent scratching the coating.
• Replace old cookware with excessive scratches, peeling, flaking, or chipping.
• Opt for safer alternatives such as stainless steel or cast-iron pans, which can be non-stick when used correctly.

While modern non-stick cookware is generally considered safe for everyday home cooking, it is important to follow basic safety precautions to minimise potential health risks.

Foodborne illness and cross-contamination

To prevent foodborne illness and cross-contamination, it is important to follow these key steps:

• Clean: Start with clean hands, utensils, and surfaces. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food, before eating, and after using the bathroom or handling raw meat or poultry. Clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces, utensils, and cutting boards, especially when switching between raw and ready-to-eat foods.
• Separate: Keep raw meat, poultry, fish, and their juices away from other foods, both during storage and preparation. Use separate cutting boards and utensils when possible.
• Cook: Always cook food to a safe minimum internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to ensure that the food has reached the recommended temperature. For example, the FDA recommends cooking chicken to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F to instantly kill Salmonella.
• Chill: Perishable foods should be kept at a safe temperature, below 40°F. Leftovers should be used or frozen within four days and reheated to 165°F.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness and cross-contamination, ensuring that the food you prepare is safe and healthy for consumption.

Air fryer cleaning

Air fryers are easy to clean and should be cleaned after every use. Here are some general steps to follow to keep your air fryer in good condition:

• After serving your food and once all parts are cool, carefully empty the grease into the trash.
• Place the basket and/or tray in the dishwasher, or wash by hand with warm, soapy water. A bottle brush is useful for getting into all the nooks and crannies.
• Allow all parts to dry completely before placing them back into the air fryer.
• Use a damp cloth to wipe down the bottom of the air fryer and the control panel as needed.

Some air fryers have specific cleaning instructions, so always refer to your model's user manual for detailed care and maintenance guidelines.

Non-Stick Coatings

Many air fryers have non-stick coatings, such as Teflon, which make them easier to clean. However, these coatings can contain potentially harmful chemicals, including PTFE, PFOA, PFOS, and BPA. While these coatings are generally safe when used properly, they can pose a risk if they become scratched or damaged, as the tiny particles released may be ingested. Therefore, it is important to handle non-stick air fryers with care and consider opting for toxin-free alternatives with stainless steel racks or ceramic coatings.

Air Fryer Maintenance

In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few other things you can do to maintain your air fryer:

• Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and prevent grease buildup.
• Use kitchen foil or baking paper to catch any drips or spills, making cleanup quicker and easier.
• Shake the basket frequently during cooking to ensure food is evenly cooked and to prevent sticking.
• Preheat your air fryer before use, just as you would an oven.

Health benefits of air fryers

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, with sales in the United States reaching 25.6 million units between 2020 and 2021. This surge in popularity is due to a growing awareness of healthfulness and a continuing demand for fried foods. Air fryers are marketed as a healthier alternative to deep frying, and they do offer several health benefits when used properly.

Weight Loss

Deep-fried foods tend to be high in fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Air fryers require only a fraction of the oil used in deep frying, resulting in a lower fat and calorie content in the final product. This reduction in fat and calorie intake can promote weight loss and improve overall health.

Safety

Deep frying involves heating a large container of scalding oil, which can pose safety risks such as spilling, splashing, or accidental contact with hot oil. Air fryers eliminate these risks as they do not require a large amount of hot oil. While air fryers do get hot, the risk of injury is significantly lower compared to deep fryers.

Reduced Risk of Toxic Compounds

Frying foods in oil can lead to the formation of dangerous compounds such as acrylamide, which has been linked to various types of cancer. By switching to air frying, people can lower the risk of these toxic compounds in their food, potentially reducing their risk of cancer and other adverse health effects.

Disease Risk Reduction

Consuming traditional fried foods cooked in oil on a regular basis has been linked to several adverse health conditions. Replacing deep frying with air frying or other healthier cooking methods can reduce the risk of these complications. Air-fried foods have a lower fat content and do not involve the use of large amounts of oil, making them a healthier alternative.

Convenience and Taste

In addition to the health benefits, air fryers offer convenience and taste advantages. They are easy to use and require less clean-up compared to deep frying. Air fryers also produce crispy and flavorful foods similar to deep-fried foods, making them a desirable option for those who enjoy the taste and texture of fried foods without the negative health impacts.

Frequently asked questions