Spraying Air Fryer Baskets: Can You Use Pam?

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, with over 60% of US households owning one. While convenient, they require cleaning after every use. To make clean-up easier, some people use parchment paper liners or non-stick cooking sprays. However, not all sprays are ideal for air fryers. Pam, a popular non-stick cooking spray, has recently launched a new formula specifically designed for air fryers. The new Pam Air Fryer Non-Stick Spray is formulated to withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and can be sprayed directly onto the unheated air fryer basket. While this new product addresses the concerns of using traditional cooking sprays in air fryers, it is important to note that cooking sprays should never be sprayed directly into the air fryer base as it can adhere to the heating element and pose a fire hazard.

Pam has released a new cooking spray specifically for air fryers

Pam Air Fryer Non-Stick Spray

The issue with using traditional cooking sprays in an air fryer is that they can cause wear and tear on the appliance. The high temperatures used in air frying can cause the spray to leave residue and build-up on the wire basket or tray, which can then lead to damage.

Pam Air Fryer Non-Stick Spray is designed to reduce this build-up, helping to protect your air fryer from wear and tear. It has a higher smoke point than traditional cooking sprays (450 degrees Fahrenheit, or 230 degrees Celsius), meaning it can withstand the high temperatures of air frying without browning or smoking.

How to Use Pam Air Fryer Spray

The spray can be applied directly to the air fryer's wire tray or basket, or to uncooked food. It helps to promote browning and crisping, making it perfect for wings, tenders, fries, and more. Just remember to always remove the basket before spraying, as you don't want the spray to get into the air fryer base and cause a fire hazard.

Where to Buy

Pam Air Fryer Spray is available at major retailers nationwide, including Acme and Instacart, for a suggested retail price of $3.99. So, if you're an air fryer enthusiast, be sure to pick up a can and give it a try!

Aerosol oils can damage the non-stick coating of an air fryer basket

Firstly, let's break down the typical composition of aerosol oils. These products usually contain chemical oil, lecithin (an emulsifier), and a propellant such as food-grade alcohol, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, or propane. The propellant is especially crucial as it prevents the spray from clogging in the nozzle. However, it is also the ingredient that is most likely to damage your air fryer.

Over time, the propellant in aerosol oils will erode the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket, causing it to flake. This means that your food will start to contain small particles of the basket, which is not only unappetizing but also potentially harmful. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to avoid using aerosol oils in your air fryer to protect your health and the longevity of your appliance.

Fortunately, there are alternative options available. You can opt for nonaerosol spray oils or even make your own cooking spray by purchasing a spray bottle or a pastry brush and filling it with your favourite cooking oil. Applying oil directly to your food is also an effective method. Additionally, some foods, such as frozen foods, may not require any additional oil at all.

It is worth noting that not all aerosol oils are created equal. Some brands, like Pam, have recognised the issue of residue and build-up caused by traditional cooking sprays on air fryer baskets. As a result, they have developed a new formula specifically designed for air fryers, which claims to reduce wear and tear. While this may be a viable option, it is always a good idea to proceed with caution when using any aerosol product in your air fryer.

In conclusion, aerosol oils can indeed damage the non-stick coating of an air fryer basket. To maintain the performance and longevity of your appliance, it is recommended to use nonaerosol alternatives or apply oil directly to your food.

Propellants in aerosol oils can be harmful to health

Propellants in Aerosol Oils: Are They Harmful to Your Health?

Aerosol products, from cosmetics to cooking oils, have become a staple in our daily lives. However, concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with the propellants used in these products. This is particularly true for spray oils used in cooking, where ingestion or inhalation of propellants is possible.

Common Propellants and Their Health Risks

Propellants such as butane, isobutane, and propane are commonly found in spray oils. These chemicals are used to create pressure and dispense the oil as a fine mist. While they are effective at their job, they pose health risks if inhaled or ingested. Butane, for example, is a flammable gas that can cause irritation to the respiratory system if inhaled or ingested. Isobutane carries similar risks, and propane, another flammable gas, can be harmful if inhaled or ingested.

When these propellants are inhaled or ingested, they can cause a range of health issues. In the short term, this may include irritation to the respiratory system, resulting in coughing and shortness of breath. In severe cases, respiratory failure may occur. Additionally, there are concerns about the long-term effects of these propellants, with some evidence linking them to neurological issues and adverse effects on the central nervous system.

A Healthier Alternative: Avocado Oil

To avoid the potential health risks associated with propellants, it is recommended to choose propellant-free alternatives like avocado oil. Avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, and it also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for cooking at high temperatures without breaking down into harmful compounds. Avocado oil also has a mild flavor that complements both savory and sweet dishes.

Environmental Impact of Aerosol Propellants

The environmental impact of aerosol propellants cannot be overlooked. Traditional aerosol propellants, such as hydrocarbons like butane, contribute to global warming, air pollution, and ozone depletion. This has led to international regulations and the phase-out of certain dangerous propellants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were once commonly used in aerosol sprays.

Bag-on-Valve Technology: A Sustainable Alternative

To address the environmental concerns associated with conventional aerosol propellants, the aerosol industry has been developing innovative technologies, such as Bag-on-Valve (BoV) technology. This packaging technique isolates the product from the propellant, allowing for the use of a wider range of propellants, including more environmentally friendly options. BoV technology not only reduces the negative environmental impact of aerosol products but also offers better product protection and increased product yield.

While aerosol products have become essential in various aspects of our lives, it is crucial to be aware of the potential health and environmental risks associated with their propellants. By choosing propellant-free alternatives, such as avocado oil for cooking, and supporting the development and use of sustainable technologies, we can make informed decisions that prioritize our health and the well-being of our planet.

Olive oil is a good alternative to aerosol cooking sprays

Olive oil spray allows you to distribute olive oil evenly across your dishes in a streaming mist, resulting in a more controlled application. This is especially useful when you want to add a small amount of oil to a dish like a salad. With a spray, you can ensure that the oil is distributed across the entire dish, rather than having half of it settle at the bottom of the bowl.

Another benefit of olive oil spray is that it can help with portion control. Because the oil is distributed in a fine mist, you are likely to use less oil overall, which can lead to a reduction in calories and fat in your finished dish. This makes olive oil spray a healthier option compared to traditional cooking oils.

In addition, olive oil spray is a versatile product that can be used for a variety of cooking applications. It can be used for grilling, roasting, sautéing, and baking, making it a handy addition to any kitchen. It is also suitable for a wide range of culinary applications and can be used on everything from salads to baking to snack foods like popcorn.

However, it is important to note that olive oil has a lower smoke point compared to other oils like canola oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil. This means that olive oil spray is better suited for low-temperature uses, such as adding flavour to a salad, rather than high-temperature cooking methods like frying or grilling. For those applications, it is recommended to use an oil with a higher smoke point to avoid potential safety hazards.

Avocado oil is another alternative with a high smoke point

Avocado oil is also a healthy option, as it contains high percentages of oleic acid. Studies suggest that avocado oil may help reduce blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, relieve joint inflammation, protect cells against free radical damage, and help the body absorb other nutrients. Avocado oil's neutral flavour also means it won't change the taste of your food.

However, it is important to note that not all avocado oil is pure. Some blends contain only a small percentage of avocado oil, so it is important to check the label. Some reliable brands include Chosen Foods and Costco.

Avocado oil spray is available, which can be convenient for air fryer users. However, some users have reported that their spray bottles tend to squirt rather than spray a fine mist. In this case, you may want to try an oil spritzer, but be aware that these can be difficult to clean and may clog easily.

Frequently asked questions