Doctor debunks air fryer myth
Air fryers have become somewhat of a commodity in many kitchens worldwide, with them rising in popularity over the past few years, so news that they could be damaging to our health may cause quite a stir.
However, similar to how uncredited information seems to circle the internet, a doctor has told viewers not to take the latest warnings over “toxic” air fryers too seriously.
One online user posted a TikTok claiming they had found out "air fryers were toxic because of the material used”, so UK doctor Karan Raj decided to weigh in on the matter.
"The biggest worry from fear mongers centres around the non-stick materials used, also known as forever chemicals,” he said in a clip that’s since raked in over a million views.
"Forever chemicals” earned the name because they don’t break down in the environment or in our bodies. Also known as PFAS, they are resistant to water, grease, and heat and are found in a number of everyday products such as food packaging, cosmetics, clothing and toilet paper.
"Fun fact, every time you sit down to eat microplastics fall from the air and land in your food, or are already part of your food," he explained.
The issue of “toxic” chemicals leeching into your food from cooking in an air fryer "is only really an issue if the air fryer is damaged,” Dr Raj added.
It is recommended to minimise how much damage and scratching there is to the non-stick coating of the fryer so the chemicals don’t get into your food.
"Clean it safely, avoid using abrasive scrubbing tools, use wood or silicone utensils and use liners," he said.
"And if you're really worried about the non-stick coating, you can use a ceramic or stainless steel air fryer.”
People in the comments thanked him for the explanation. " Some people will trust anyone EXCEPT actual Doctors,” one user teased.
Dr Raj went on to ask his followers what their favourite meal to cook in an air fryer was, adding, "Air fried chips just taste special".
Image credit: TikTok