Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm, but a health expert is now urging caution, revealing that the beloved appliance may come with hidden dangers.
Dr. Poonam Desai, a longevity doctor, recently made headlines after announcing she threw out her air fryer. Her reason? The high-heat cooking process can produce acrylamide, a chemical that’s been linked to cancer in animal studies. Though human risks aren’t confirmed, the possibility was enough for her to stop using it.
She also warned about non-stick coatings in many air fryers, which often contain PFAS—chemicals that accumulate in the body and have been associated with health risks.
To minimize exposure, experts recommend regular cleaning. Dr. Richard Anderson advises a monthly deep clean, avoiding dishwashers that can damage coatings. For tough grease, soaking parts with a dishwasher tablet overnight can help.
While air fryers remain a convenient option, this warning suggests they might not be as harmless as they seem.
