Glass In Air Fryers: Safe Or Not?

Air fryers are becoming increasingly popular, and many people are discovering new ways to cook with them. One common question is whether you can use glass bowls or dishes in an air fryer. The short answer is yes, but there are some important precautions to consider. Firstly, not all glass is created equal; it's essential to use tempered, oven-safe glass that is free of cracks and can withstand high temperatures. Avoid using glass at extremely high temperatures or subjecting it to sudden temperature changes, as this can cause cracking or shattering. Additionally, ensure that the glassware doesn't block the airflow in the air fryer, as this can affect cooking performance. By following these guidelines, you can safely use glass in your air fryer and enjoy the benefits of even heating, non-toxicity, and the ability to cook, serve, and store food all in one dish.

Glass can be used in an air fryer, but it must be oven-safe and tempered

Borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex, is a type of tempered glass that is the safest choice for cooking with an air fryer. It can withstand high heat and ensures your food is cooked safely. On the other hand, soda-lime glass, which has a greenish tint, is not suitable for cooking due to its low heat resistance and tendency to break easily.

When using glass in an air fryer, it is important to avoid high temperatures and sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking or shattering. Glass should also not block the airflow in the air fryer, so it's important to use a dish that is the correct size and shape.

To identify if a glass dish is oven-safe, check for a manufacturer's stamp or label, or look for the oven-safe symbol. Oven-safe glass dishes can usually withstand a maximum temperature of 350°F to 450°F. It's also important to check the glass for any cracks or scratches that might cause it to break.

Avoid high temperatures or sudden temperature changes when using glass in an air fryer

It is important to be cautious when using glass in an air fryer, as the wrong type of glass or sudden temperature changes can lead to dangerous accidents. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you avoid high temperatures or sudden temperature changes when using glass in an air fryer:

Choose the Right Glassware

Not all glassware is created equal when it comes to withstanding high temperatures. It is crucial to select oven-safe glassware that is specifically designed to endure the high temperatures of an air fryer. Look for glassware made from borosilicate glass or tempered glass, as these types of glass have excellent heat resistance and durability. Check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the glassware can withstand temperatures of at least 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

To prevent thermal shock and the risk of cracking or shattering, avoid placing cold or frozen glassware directly into the air fryer. Allow the glassware to come to room temperature before placing it inside. Similarly, when removing the glassware from the air fryer, avoid immersing it in cold water. Instead, use oven mitts or a dish towel to handle the hot dish, and let it cool down gradually.

Preheat the Air Fryer and Glassware

Before placing your glassware into the air fryer, it is recommended to preheat both the air fryer and the glassware. This helps to ensure a gradual increase in temperature and reduces the risk of thermal shock. Preheat the empty glass dish along with the air fryer, or preheat the glass bowl with slightly hot water before placing it in the fryer.

Monitor Cooking Times

Keep a close eye on the cooking process when using glass in an air fryer. The cooking times may differ from those specified in recipes or the air fryer's manual when using oven-safe glassware. By monitoring the cooking process, you can prevent undercooking or overcooking and reduce the risk of accidents.

Check for Structural Weakness

Before using any glassware in an air fryer, inspect it for any pre-existing cracks, scratches, uneven surfaces, or colour changes. Hold the glassware up to the light to thoroughly check for any signs of weakness. If you notice any structural issues, it is best to avoid using that particular piece of glassware in the air fryer.

By following these guidelines, you can safely use glass in your air fryer and enjoy all the benefits it brings, such as easy monitoring of your food, even cooking, and retaining moisture and flavour.

Use borosilicate glass instead of soda-lime glass

Glass is a popular choice for cooking and baking due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and non-reactivity. However, when it comes to air frying, the choice of glassware becomes crucial for safety reasons. While you can use glass in an air fryer, it is important to select the right type of glass to prevent accidents.

Soda-lime glass, which accounts for about 90% of commercially used glass, is typically used for drinking glasses, windows, vases, and containers like bottles and jars. However, when it comes to air frying, soda-lime glass is not the best option due to its low thermal shock resistance.

On the other hand, borosilicate glass, also known as lab glass, is a premium-grade glass with exceptional thermal shock resistance. It can withstand rapid and extreme temperature changes without shattering. This makes borosilicate glass a safer choice for use in air fryers.

Borosilicate glass has a much higher melting point than soda-lime glass (3000°F vs 1832°F). It also has a lower thermal expansion and contraction rate, which means it is less likely to break when exposed to temperature changes. Additionally, borosilicate glass does not contain any lead or cadmium, making it a safer option for food and drinks.

When using borosilicate glass in an air fryer, it is still important to follow certain precautions. Always check the manufacturer's instructions and look for the oven-safe label. Ensure that the glassware is not too big and does not block the airflow inside the air fryer. Also, avoid putting cold glassware directly into the air fryer; allow it to come to room temperature first.

By choosing borosilicate glass over soda-lime glass for your air frying needs, you can enjoy the benefits of glass cookware while maintaining safety and durability.

Check glassware for cracks or scratches before using it in an air fryer

Checking glassware for cracks or scratches is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of your cooking process and maintaining the integrity of your glassware. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for checking glassware before using it in an air fryer:

• Visual Inspection: Hold the glassware up to the light and carefully examine its surface. Look for any signs of cracks, scratches, uneven surfaces, or colour changes. These imperfections can weaken the structural integrity of the glass and increase the risk of breakage during use.
• Types of Cracks: Be aware of the different types of cracks that can occur in glass. Stress cracks, for example, are caused by extreme fluctuations in temperature and often start near the edge of the glass, slowly spreading across the surface. Impact cracks, on the other hand, are the result of immediate contact with another object and typically have a centre point of impact with lines extending around the circumference. Understanding the type of crack can help you identify the cause and determine the necessary repairs or replacements.
• Superficial vs. Deep Scratches: Not all scratches are equal. Superficial scratches are barely visible and can be challenging to feel, making them suitable for DIY repair methods. Surface scratches, however, are more noticeable and detectable with a fingernail. These usually require the attention of a local glass repair professional. Sub-surface scratches are deep and easily felt with your fingertips. These often lead to severe breaks, so it's essential to consult a glass professional for repairs or replacement.
• Addressing Scratches: While some scratches can be repaired at home using methods like metal polish, baking soda, glass polisher, or steel wool, it's important to assess the severity of the scratch first. Deep scratches, especially those that affect the structural integrity of the glass, should be left to professionals. Attempting to repair them yourself may further compromise the strength of the glassware.
• Safety First: Stresses in the glass material can alter the outcome of your cooking experiments and pose potential hazards. Even small cracks or "stars" can indicate underlying issues that may lead to breakage or leakage. By regularly inspecting your glassware for these imperfections, you can help ensure your safety and the accuracy of your cooking endeavours.
• Prevention and Maintenance: To prolong the life of your glassware and maintain its durability, it's essential to handle and store it with care. Avoid subjecting glassware to sudden temperature changes, and always allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in an air fryer. Regularly clean your glassware using appropriate methods to prevent the buildup of grease and other residues that could affect its performance and appearance.

Don't block the airflow in the air fryer with glassware that is too big or doesn't fit properly

When using glassware in an air fryer, it's important to ensure that the glassware doesn't obstruct the airflow. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, and if this airflow is blocked, your food may not cook properly.

To avoid blocking the airflow, choose glassware that is the appropriate size and shape for your air fryer. The glassware should not be too big and should not take up more than half of the basket space. It should also be designed for use in an air fryer, with holes to allow air to circulate.

Additionally, it's important to use tempered or oven-safe glassware that can withstand the high temperatures of an air fryer. Check the manufacturer's stamp or label to verify that the glassware is oven-safe. Avoid using glassware with cracks or scratches, as these can weaken the structure and cause it to shatter.

By following these guidelines, you can safely use glassware in your air fryer without blocking the airflow and compromising the cooking process.

• Avoid high temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as these can cause ordinary glass to shatter or explode.
• Use high-quality glass made of borosilicate glass instead of soda-lime glass, as it is stronger and more heat-resistant.
• Preheat the empty glass dish gradually along with the air fryer to prevent thermal shock and to test its heat resistance.

Frequently asked questions