Air Fryer Non-Stick Spray: Safe Or Not?

Air fryers are a popular appliance for cooking crispy food without using much oil. However, the question of whether non-stick cooking spray can be used in air fryers is a contentious issue. Some people claim that the use of cooking spray can ruin the non-stick coating of the air fryer basket, while others argue that it is safe to use in moderation. So, can you spray non-stick spray in an air fryer? Let's explore the arguments and find a conclusion.

Can you spray non-stick spray in an air fryer?

Why you shouldn't use non-stick spray in an air fryer

Air fryers are a fantastic appliance to have in your kitchen, allowing you to cook crispy food without using a lot of oil. However, despite the temptation, you should avoid using non-stick spray in your air fryer.

Firstly, non-stick sprays can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer. The chemicals in aerosol non-stick sprays can cause the coating to chip and deteriorate, which can then get into your food. This can be harmful to your health, and it will also ruin your air fryer. The lecithin in cooking sprays will build up on the surface of your air fryer, becoming nearly impossible to remove. This will turn your non-stick air fryer into a sticky mess.

Secondly, non-stick sprays can impact the taste and appearance of your food. The spray oils can cause discolouration and produce an off-putting flavour. The soy lecithin in cooking sprays is less stable than high-smoke-point oils and will deteriorate at the temperatures used for air frying, which can ruin your food and your equipment.

Thirdly, you simply don't need to use non-stick spray in an air fryer. Most air fryers already have a non-stick surface, so you can omit the spray altogether. If you're worried about sticking, you can use a small amount of high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado oil, or use parchment paper or silicone liners in your air fryer.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to reach for the non-stick spray to ensure your food doesn't stick, it's important to avoid doing so when using an air fryer. The potential damage to both your health and your appliance is not worth the risk, and there are plenty of alternative options available to ensure your food turns out perfectly.

How non-stick spray can ruin the coating of an air fryer

The general consensus is that you should not use aerosol-based non-stick sprays on the basket in your air fryer. This is because most air fryers feature a non-stick surface, and when you use aerosol-based non-stick sprays on a non-stick surface, it can potentially damage the coating, causing it to chip and even get into your food.

The chemicals added to aerosol non-stick sprays have been known to cause the wearing down of non-stick coatings. The droplets have a low smoke point, and over time, the lecithin in the spray will start to build up on your basket or rack, resulting in a sticky spot. This sticky residue is hard to remove and can degrade the coating, so the non-stick surface no longer works.

The lecithin in the spray will cook onto the surface of your air fryer, building up over time and becoming nearly impossible to remove. This build-up will damage the non-stick coating of your product, turning your non-stick air fryer into a very sticky one.

To avoid this, it is recommended to use a non-aerosol spray, a mister with a high-smoke-point oil, or an air fryer liner made from silicone or parchment.

Alternatives to non-stick spray for air fryers

Air fryers are designed to cook food without submerging it in oil. However, a light coating of oil can help your food crisp up and prevent it from sticking. While non-stick sprays are convenient, they are not always suitable for air fryers, as they can damage the non-stick coating and affect the taste of your food.

High-Smoke-Point Oils

Oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, extra-virgin olive oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, peanut oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, and ghee (clarified butter), are ideal for air frying. These oils can be used sparingly and applied directly to the air fryer basket or the food itself.

Non-Aerosol Sprays

If you prefer the convenience of a spray, look for oil sprays that come in a non-propellant-style can, such as the Pompeian brand. These sprays often offer healthier oil options and do not contain the chemicals found in aerosol sprays that can damage the non-stick coating.

Refillable Mister

You can also make your own non-aerosol spray by using a refillable mister. Simply fill it with a high-smoke-point oil of your choice and spritz it onto the air fryer basket or food.

Air Fryer Liners

Using liners made from silicone or parchment paper can help reduce sticking and make cleanup easier. Silicone liners are reusable and dishwasher-safe, while parchment paper liners are disposable. You can also use aluminium foil as a liner, which will catch any food residue and make cleanup a breeze.

Racks or Trays

Metal racks or trays can be placed inside the air fryer basket to elevate the food and allow for even cooking. This prevents the food from touching the bottom of the basket, reducing the chances of sticking.

Foil Packets

Another option is to create foil packets by arranging your food inside a piece of aluminium foil and rolling up the sides. Ensure that air can circulate around the packet for even cooking. After cooking, simply toss the foil, leaving your air fryer clean and ready for the next use.

How to prevent food from sticking in an air fryer

Air fryers are a handy kitchen appliance that can cook a variety of foods with minimal oil. However, food can sometimes stick to the surface of the air fryer, which can be a hassle to clean and result in uneven cooking. Here are some tips to prevent food from sticking:

Preheat the air fryer

Before placing your food in the air fryer, it is essential to preheat it. Most air fryer brands have a preheat mode, but if yours does not, simply set it to the desired temperature and let it run for about three minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and can help prevent food from sticking.

Use oil sparingly

Using a small amount of oil can help prevent sticking and promote even browning and crisping of your food. Dry foods, such as trimmed boneless and skinless chicken thighs, can be dried and then rubbed with oil before being placed in the air fryer. For foods that are more prone to sticking, such as fried chicken or chicken Parmesan, you can lightly spray or rub the basket with vegetable oil or a high smoke point oil like avocado oil, almond oil, or grapeseed oil.

Grease the fryer basket

Even if your food doesn't require oil, it is essential to grease the fryer basket to prevent sticking. You can do this by rubbing or spraying a little vegetable oil on the lower racks. However, it is important to avoid aerosol cooking sprays as they can damage the non-stick coating of the air fryer.

Don't overload the basket

Overloading the basket can cause the food to stick and prevent it from crisping up. Make sure to leave enough space for the food to heat up and cook evenly.

Shake the basket during cooking

When cooking small foods like chicken wings or chips, shake the basket every few minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. For larger foods, you can use a pair of kitchen tongs to flip them instead of shaking the basket.

By following these tips, you can help prevent food from sticking in your air fryer and ensure even and crispy cooking results.

How to clean non-stick coating after using non-stick spray

Why You Shouldn't Use Non-Stick Spray

Non-stick sprays contain chemicals that can wear down non-stick coatings. They can cause the coating to chip, which can then get into your food. Over time, the spray will result in a sticky, hard-to-remove build-up.

How to Clean Non-Stick Coating

To clean a non-stick coating after using non-stick spray, you can follow these steps:

• Cool down: Before you begin cleaning, allow the pan to cool completely. Rinsing a hot pan with water can warp it and cause damage.
• Rinse: Using soap and warm water, rinse the pan to remove leftover food particles.
• Scrub: Using a sponge or washcloth, scrub the surface of the pan to remove any remaining food particles. Be sure to use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth, as abrasive scrubbers can scratch the coating.
• Rinse again: Once the pan has been scrubbed, rinse it again.
• Dry: Using a clean towel, dry the surface of the pan.

If your pan has a burnt-on residue, you can try the following method:

• Mix solution: Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar, baking soda, and a small amount of water in the pan.
• Heat: Place the pan on your stove and apply heat.
• Boil: Let the mixture boil for up to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Cool down: After five minutes, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool.
• Rinse: Rinse the pan with warm water and wash it out using a sponge and dish soap.
• Dry: Allow the pan to dry.

To remove a sticky coating that has formed due to the use of cooking sprays, follow these steps:

• Add vinegar and water: Begin by adding a mixture of vinegar and water to the pan. For best results, use one part vinegar to two parts water.
• Simmer: Once the mixture is added, put your pan on the stove and bring it to a simmer.
• Cool down: Once the residue appears to be gone, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool down.
• Wash: Pour out the mixture of water and vinegar and wash the pan using soap and warm water.
• Rinse: Rinse with warm water to remove any excess residue.
• Dry: Place the pan on a drying rack or towel to dry.

Tips for Maintaining Non-Stick Coating

• Avoid using aerosol cooking sprays. Instead, use butter or oil, and apply sparingly to the food rather than the pan.
• Use wooden or silicone utensils to avoid scratching the coating.
• Wash non-stick pans by hand with warm water and soap, and dry them with a towel. Avoid putting non-stick pans in the dishwasher, as it can warp them and strip away their coating.

Frequently asked questions