Using Foil In A Breville Air Fryer: Safe Or Not?

While Breville Consumer Support recommends against using foil in their ovens, citing the possibility of damage to the appliance, many users report using foil in their Breville Smart Oven without issue. Some users line the pan with foil to make cleaning easier, while others use it to cover their food. However, one user reported that their Breville oven caught on fire when using foil.

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro: can you use foil?

The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a convection oven, and as such, it is safe to use foil in it. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using foil in this appliance. Firstly, it is important to know the type of air fryer you have, as this will impact how you use foil. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is an oven-style air fryer, which means it has a bottom grease tray. This is relevant because using foil to catch grease and drippings is much easier in oven-style air fryers than in basket-style ones.

When using foil in the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, it is best to line the bottom grease tray with foil to catch any drippings. You can also use foil to wrap your food for easier cleanup and better flavor. However, it is important not to cover the entire tray with foil, as this will block airflow and result in uneven cooking. Instead, make sure the foil doesn't cover the heating element, which is usually at the top of the oven-style air fryer.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid cooking acidic foods with aluminium foil, as this can cause a chemical reaction and allow aluminium to leach into the food. It is also generally advised to limit the use of aluminium foil in cooking due to potential health concerns. Parchment paper is a recommended alternative to aluminium foil as it is environmentally friendly and non-reactive with acidic foods.

Overall, using foil in the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro can be safe and convenient for cleanup, but it is important to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and be mindful of potential health risks associated with aluminium foil.

Is it easy to clean?

While some users have reported that they line the pan of their Breville air fryer with foil to make cleaning easier, Breville Consumer Support has stated that the company does not suggest using foil in the oven. This is because the foil could come into contact with the sides, causing scratches, or with the elements, which can cause serious damage.

If you do choose to use foil in your Breville air fryer, be aware that there is a risk of damage to the appliance. Some users have reported that using foil makes cleaning easier, while others have noted that it can catch on fire.

One user recommends using parchment paper instead of foil to line the pan of the air fryer. They suggest that as long as the parchment paper is not above the top edge of the basket and has enough food on it to keep it from blowing around, it will not pose a fire hazard. Another user mentions that they use silicone air fryer liners, but express concern about plastics in contact with high temperatures.

The Breville air fryer has a large window and a bright oven light, making it easy to keep an eye on your food while it cooks. Additionally, the Breville air fryer is described as being well-built and high-quality, so it is expected to last for years with proper care.

What are the risks of using foil?

While it is possible to use foil in your Breville Air Fryer, there are some risks involved.

Firstly, there is a risk of fire. One user reported that their air fryer caught on fire when using foil to cook a burger. Parchment paper is also considered a fire hazard in toaster ovens, so care should be taken when using either of these materials.

Secondly, there is a risk of damaging the appliance. If using a basket model air fryer, covering all the holes with foil can potentially damage the appliance. This is because the holes allow heat and air to circulate, and blocking them can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy outcome.

Thirdly, there is a risk of toxic aluminium leaching into your food. Aluminium is a toxic heavy metal that has been linked to Alzheimer's. While this risk is mitigated if the foil is not touching the food, it is still recommended to limit the use of foil and avoid using it with acidic foods, which can cause a chemical reaction and increase the amount of aluminium leaching into your food.

Finally, there is a risk of the foil being blown about by the air fryer if the food is not sitting directly on it or if it is not weighed down.

Therefore, while it is possible to use foil in your Breville Air Fryer, it is important to do so with caution and to consider alternative options such as parchment paper or grease-proof trays.

What are the alternatives to foil?

While some sources suggest that using foil in an air fryer is safe, others advise against it. Foil can disrupt the airflow within the appliance, preventing food from cooking evenly. It can also scratch the coating of your air fryer.

If you're looking for alternatives to using foil in your air fryer, here are some options:

• Parchment paper—This is a suitable alternative, but it should only be used if it is weighed down by food. Parchment paper is lightweight and can blow around, burning if it touches the heating element. You can buy parchment liners designed specifically for air fryers. However, parchment paper is not suitable for liquid foods like eggs or sauces.
• Silicone moulds or a silicone basket liner—These are ideal for liquid foods and sauces.
• Air fryer basket—The perforated basket that comes with your air fryer is the best option for ample airflow and even cooking.
• No-flip air fryer basket—This type of basket eliminates the need for additional cookware and ensures proper airflow.
• Drip pan—If you're using an oven-style fryer, you can use a drip pan to catch any spills.
• Glass bowl—A tempered glass bowl can be used in place of foil, but make sure it is microwave-safe.

What foods can be cooked with foil?

Yes, you can use foil in an air fryer, but it is not recommended for certain foods.

Aluminum foil can be used in an air fryer, but only in the basket. Foil should never be allowed to touch the heating element, and it must be weighted down so it doesn't blow around. It is also important to avoid contact with acidic foods, as the acid can cause the foil to leach into your meal. Foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, and anything marinated in vinegar or citrus juice should be avoided when using foil.

Foil is particularly useful when cooking foods that may stick to the basket, such as meats, eggs, and breaded items. It is also helpful for cooking multiple batches, as it saves time on cleaning between each batch.

• Don't cover the holes in the basket, as this will hinder airflow and affect cooking.
• Create a foil sling to easily lift food in and out of the basket.
• Crumble up the foil to elevate food and bring it closer to the heating element.

However, using parchment paper or a bare basket is generally better than foil as it won't interfere with cooking. Parchment paper is also better for the environment and is less likely to cause a fire hazard.

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