Antimony In Air Fryers: What You Need To Know

Air fryers have become increasingly popular due to their ability to cook crispy and tasty food with less oil. However, there are concerns about their potential toxicity, with some people claiming that air fryers can cause high levels of metal toxicity, particularly antimony, in those who consume food cooked in them. Antimony is a metallic element used in various industrial applications, including flame-retardant materials, and is also present in some electronic devices. While there is limited research on the toxicity of antimony itself, its compounds can be toxic, and exposure to high levels of antimony has been linked to various health issues.

Antimony in air fryer cords

There has been some concern over the presence of antimony in air fryer cords, and whether this poses a health risk to users. Antimony is a toxic mineral, and exposure to it can cause health issues.

Antimony is a common component in appliance cords, including those of air fryers. It is used as a flame retardant, specifically in the form of antimony trioxide. Tests have shown that appliance cords typically contain high levels of antimony, ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 parts per million (ppm). This has led to concerns about the potential health risks associated with exposure to this toxic substance.

However, it is important to note that the risk of exposure to antimony from air fryer cords is relatively low. The Danish study concluded that antimony trioxide is an inorganic compound that is solidly bound and will not migrate. It is only likely to be released through tear and wear. This means that normal use of an air fryer is unlikely to result in significant exposure to antimony from the cord.

While the risk of antimony exposure from the cord itself is relatively low, it is worth mentioning that antimony can also be found in other parts of air fryers. It is often present in the solder used on interior parts, and in some cases, it may be found in the black plastic used on the outside and inside of the appliance. Additionally, air fryers may contain other potentially toxic substances, such as fluorinated compounds in non-stick coatings, which can pose a risk if overheated or damaged.

To minimise the risk of exposure to antimony and other toxic substances, it is recommended to follow safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This may include recommendations such as washing hands after touching the cord and hand-washing non-stick components with a soft sponge to avoid damaging the coating.

Antimony in black plastic

Antimony is a neurotoxic heavy metal that is used in the processing of polyethylene terephthalate. It is commonly found in black plastic, either as a part of added flame retardants or as a contaminant in recycled plastic.

Black plastic has been found to contain high levels of antimony due to contamination from recycled electronic waste (e-waste). A 2018 study by Andrew Turner from Plymouth University, UK, found that black plastic products often contain recycled e-waste, introducing hazardous substances such as brominated flame retardants (BFRs), antimony, and heavy metals. A 2023 study from the UK confirmed the presence of e-waste in new black plastic items, particularly in black plastic products.

The risk of using recycled black plastic with these contaminants is not yet fully understood. While most products had concentrations below regulatory limits, some products substantially exceeded those limits. The potential danger of this practice has not been conclusively proven, and more research is needed to bridge the gap between recycled chemical presence and human health risks.

The presence of antimony in black plastic can be a concern, especially in products that come into contact with food, such as air fryers. While the food contact surfaces in air fryers are typically not made of black plastic, there is still a potential risk of exposure to these hazardous chemicals.

Antimony in non-stick coatings

Antimony is a toxic heavy metal that can be found in black plastic, electrical cords, and recycled electronic waste. While it is not typically found in non-stick coatings, it can be present in the plastic components of appliances, such as flexible vinyl, electrical wiring, and hoses. Here is some detailed information about non-stick coatings:

Non-stick coatings are commonly used in modern kitchenware to prevent food from sticking to the surface, offering convenience and ease of cleaning. The most common type of non-stick coating is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon. PTFE is a synthetic fluoropolymer that creates a stable and low-friction surface, ideal for cookware. However, PTFE has been associated with potential health risks when heated to high temperatures, as it can break down and release harmful fumes.

Another popular option for non-stick coatings is ceramic. Ceramic coatings are made from a silicone base, often reinforced with materials like titanium, and are considered safer than PTFE due to their higher heat tolerance. They are also more environmentally friendly, durable, and scratch-resistant. However, ceramic coatings may not be as non-stick as PTFE and can be more susceptible to scratches.

Other less common materials used in non-stick coatings include hard-anodized aluminum, enamel, and sol-gel coatings (still under development). These coatings aim to provide a non-stick surface while being free of PTFE and PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid), a chemical previously used in PTFE production that has been phased out due to health and environmental concerns.

When choosing a non-stick coating, it is important to consider factors such as durability, heat resistance, safety, and environmental impact. While PTFE is widely used and offers excellent non-stick properties, it may not be the best choice for those prioritizing health and eco-friendliness. Ceramic coatings, on the other hand, are considered safer and more environmentally friendly but may not perform as well as PTFE in terms of non-stick capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the user's specific needs and priorities.

Antimony in electronic devices

Antimony is a semi-metal or metalloid that is silvery, hard, and brittle in its metallic form. It is used in the electronics industry to make semiconductor devices such as infrared detectors and diodes. It is also alloyed with lead or other metals to improve their hardness and strength.

In the electronics industry, antimony is used as a dopant in semiconductor devices. It is also alloyed with lead to improve the rigidity of lead-alloy plates in lead-acid batteries. Antimony is frequently found in electrical cords as a component of the flame retardant antimony trioxide. It is also used in solder for internal parts.

Antimony is a member of group 15 of the periodic table and has the chemical symbol Sb, derived from the Latin stibium. It is stable in air at room temperature but will react with oxygen if heated to produce antimony trioxide (Sb2O3). It is resistant to attack by acids.

The earliest known description of this metalloid in the West was written in 1540 by Vannoccio Biringuccio. China is currently the largest producer of antimony and its compounds, with most production coming from the Xikuangshan Mine in Hunan.

Antimony in appliance cords

Antimony is a toxic substance that can be found in the electrical cords of appliances, including air fryers. It is a component of the added flame retardant, antimony trioxide, which is used to prevent fires. While it is not specific to air fryers, it is likely that you have an appliance with antimony in its cord in your home.

Tamara Rubin, a building biologist, has found that most appliance electrical cords will test positive for antimony by XRF testing. The levels of antimony in these cords are typically in the range of 5,000 to 15,000 parts per million (ppm), which is considered high. Some appliance companies recommend washing your hands after touching the cord to avoid any potential exposure.

However, according to a Danish study, antimony trioxide is an inorganic compound that is solid-bound and will not migrate. It is only liberated through tear and wear. This means that the risk of exposure to antimony from appliance cords is relatively low, unless the cord is damaged or degraded in some way.

It is important to note that antimony can also be found in other parts of appliances, such as the solder used on interior parts, and in black plastic components as either a contaminant or part of added flame retardants.

While the presence of antimony in appliance cords is not exclusive to air fryers, it is still a cause for concern. Consumers should be aware of the potential risks associated with exposure to this toxic substance and take appropriate precautions, such as washing hands after handling appliance cords and ensuring that cords are in good condition to prevent liberation of antimony through tear and wear.

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