Air Fryer Cooking: Pam Spray, Safe Or Not?

Cooking sprays are a convenient way to prevent food from sticking to your air fryer. However, not all cooking sprays are suitable for use in air fryers. While some sources claim that PAM cooking spray can be used in an air fryer, others advise against it, stating that aerosol cooking sprays can damage the non-stick coating and reduce the lifespan of the appliance. To preserve the longevity of your air fryer, it is recommended to use natural cooking oils with high smoke points or consider seasoning your air fryer to prevent sticking.

Pam has launched a new air fryer spray

The new formula delivers superior performance, ensuring your air-fried foods come out great while leaving minimal mess behind. With a smoke point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit, it can withstand higher temperatures than traditional cooking sprays and can be sprayed directly onto the unheated air fryer basket or wire tray. It can also be applied directly to uncooked food to promote browning and crisping.

The spray is made with no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, and its formula has been updated for easier air fryer cleaning. It won't negatively affect your air fryer's non-stick coating, and you won't need to scrape food out of the basket or use extra effort to clean the tray afterward.

The Pam Air Fryer Spray is now available for a suggested retail price of $3.99 and can be found at major retailers nationwide, including Acme and Instacart. So, if you're an air fryer enthusiast, be sure to pick up a can of Pam Air Fryer Spray and enjoy the convenience and superior performance it offers!

Aerosol sprays may damage the air fryer

While it is possible to use PAM in an air fryer, it is not advisable to use any aerosol cooking spray in your air fryer. The harsh chemical agents found in cooking sprays are notorious for ruining non-stick coatings and can permanently damage your air fryer.

Aerosol spray cans like PAM are almost always made from genetically modified vegetable oil like canola oil, soybean oil, corn oil, or soy lecithin. Genetically modified crops are intentionally designed to withstand the chemical warfare of harsh agents like bug and weed killers. Due to the popularity of air fryers and the advances in non-aerosol sprayers, it is not too difficult to find a can of oil spray that is just oil with no additives. PAM, for example, makes a coconut oil that they sell in a pump spray bottle.

The best thing you can do to preserve the longevity of your air fryer basket is to never use aerosol sprays. Instead, you can use a spray bottle or a pastry brush. You can purchase an olive oil sprayer designed especially for cooking, or you can just use a regular food-friendly squirt bottle. If you do use a plain old squirt bottle, you may need to dilute your spray oil with a little water to thin it out. To use a DIY cooking spray, just fill the spray bottle with your favorite cooking oil and spray it directly on your food. Alternatively, use a pastry brush to apply a little oil to your food instead.

It is important to note that you never want to get any cooking spray directly into the air fryer base because it can adhere to the heating element and become a fire hazard. Always remember to remove and spray the basket while it is outside of the cooking chamber.

Non-aerosol sprays are safe to use

While aerosol cooking sprays like PAM are convenient and provide an even mist, they are not the best option for your health or your air fryer. Aerosol sprays are known to contain genetically modified vegetable oils, such as canola oil, soybean oil, corn oil, or soy lecithin, which can create a sticky build-up on your air fryer's non-stick coating. This build-up is challenging to remove and can lead to permanent damage.

However, non-aerosol sprays are a safe and healthy alternative for your air fryer. You can make your own non-aerosol cooking spray by purchasing an olive oil sprayer or using a food-safe squirt bottle. Fill the spray bottle with your preferred cooking oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, which have high smoke points suitable for air frying. You can also add a little water to thin the oil and help with spraying. By making your own non-aerosol cooking spray, you can avoid the harmful propellants found in aerosol sprays, such as propane, butane, isobutane, or grain alcohol.

Another option is to use a pastry brush to apply a small amount of oil directly to your food before placing it in the air fryer. This method is recommended by some sources as it avoids the potential clogging and cleaning issues associated with spray bottles. Additionally, it allows you to control the amount of oil used, ensuring a healthier cooking experience.

When using non-aerosol sprays or oils in your air fryer, it is essential to follow proper cleaning practices. Always clean your air fryer with a soft sponge and warm soapy water immediately after use. Inspect the surface closely to ensure no food residue or oil is still sticking to it. If necessary, soak stubborn residue in hot water with baking soda, ammonia, or a mild, fume-free oven cleaner to soften and remove it.

By choosing non-aerosol sprays and following proper cleaning techniques, you can maintain the longevity and performance of your air fryer while also ensuring a healthy cooking environment.

Cooking spray can be made at home

While you can use PAM in an air fryer, it is not recommended due to the presence of aerosol and other additives that can be harmful to your health and the air fryer itself. The harsh chemical agents found in cooking sprays can ruin non-stick coatings and even permanently damage your air fryer.

A better alternative is to make your own cooking spray at home. All you need is a spray bottle or a pastry brush. You can purchase an olive oil sprayer designed for cooking, or simply use a regular food-grade squirt bottle. If you're using a plain squirt bottle, you may need to dilute the spray oil with a little water first to thin it out. Simply fill the spray bottle with your favourite cooking oil and spray it directly onto your food. Alternatively, you can use a pastry brush to apply a small amount of oil to your food. This method is preferred by some, as sprayers can get clogged and are difficult to clean.

To make your own cooking spray, you will need a mister spray bottle that can hold at least one cup and is not filled to the top, as the spray needs air to mist. You can use canola oil, extra virgin olive oil, walnut oil, or any other healthy oil of your choice. Measure out two tablespoons of oil and pour it into the mister bottle. Next, measure one cup of water and remove two tablespoons. Pour the oil into the bottle, add the water, and shake well. Be sure to shake the bottle well before each use and store it in a cool, dry place away from light.

By making your own cooking spray, you can avoid the additives and preservatives found in store-bought sprays, which can have negative health impacts. Additionally, homemade sprays can help prevent the build-up of "gunk" on your dishes, making cleanup easier.

Cooking spray makes cleaning easier

Cooking spray can be used in an air fryer, but it is not recommended. While it may seem convenient, cooking spray can cause more harm than good. Aerosol cooking sprays, such as PAM, are known to contain harsh chemical agents that can ruin non-stick coatings and permanently damage your air fryer.

However, cooking spray can be a useful tool for cleaning. Its lubricating properties can make cleaning easier and more effective, especially when tackling stubborn residue and build-up. Here are some ways in which cooking spray can make cleaning easier:

In the Kitchen

Cooking spray can be used to loosen up tricky locks, shine faucets, and remove melted wax. It can also be used to prevent messes and make cleanup easier. For example, you can lightly spray plastic wrap with cooking spray to create a non-stick barrier before covering desserts. This prevents the plastic wrap from sticking and preserves the appearance of your treats.

In the Bathroom

Cooking spray can help remove mineral deposits and soap scum in your shower or tub. Simply spray the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then thoroughly wash it away. It can also be used to shine faucets, giving them a polished look and protecting them from water spots and fingerprints.

On Artificial Plants

Spraying the leaves of artificial plants with cooking spray and then wiping them with a clean rag helps to remove accumulated dust and restore their natural, vibrant appearance.

On Plastic Containers

To prevent tomato stains, spray the inside of a plastic container with cooking spray before filling it with anything containing tomatoes. This creates a protective barrier, preventing the sauce from coming into direct contact with the plastic and making it much easier to clean afterward.

In the Freezer

Spraying the inside of your freezer with cooking spray helps to prevent ice buildup. It creates a thin, non-stick layer that prevents ice from adhering and forming thick layers. This makes it easier to maintain and clean your freezer, reducing the need for frequent defrosting.

On Stickers and Decals

Cooking spray can be used to remove stickers and decals by breaking down and dissolving the adhesive. This makes it much easier to wipe away any remaining residue and leaves the surface clean and smooth.

While cooking spray can be beneficial for cleaning, it's important to note that it may not be suitable for all surfaces. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't cause any damage or discolouration. Additionally, when using cooking spray for cleaning, be sure to follow up with a mild soap and water to remove any leftover oil.

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