Urgent air fryer warning issued for all UK households

AO’s small appliance expert, Isabella Forgione, has warned UK households using popular coating sprays after they were found to contain additives and propellants.

Over time, these can affect the air fryer’s interior, which can lead to it breaking down.

She said: “The biggest mistake people make is misusing oil and cooking sprays. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, so technically, you don’t need oil to cook.

“But if you’re after that golden, crispy finish, a little oil can go a long way if used correctly.” Isabella explained: “This helps crisp up items like vegetables or breaded snacks without damaging the non-stick coating.”

The Kitchn advises: “Cooking spray is oil, yes. It also contains lecithin (an emulsifier), dimethyl silicone (an anti-foaming agent), and a propellant.

“The droplets have a low smoke point and, over time, the lecithin will start to build up onto your basket or rack, resulting in a sticky spot. (It will actually feel sticky to the touch; as if you had a sticker there and it left goo behind when you pulled it off.)

“This sticky spot is hard to remove and can degrade the coating so that the nonstick surface no longer does its job.”

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It went on: “If you’re following a recipe that does call for spraying the racks or basket — like this one for air fryer donuts — I suggest going the DIY approach with an oil that has a high smoke point.

“(If you’re not familiar, the smoke point is the temperature at which oil starts to, well, smoke.) Refined avocado oil, for example, would be a good choice. Use it sparingly. And whenever possible, oil your food instead of the basket.

“Also, use silicone-tipped tools and a soft sponge so that you don’t scratch the coating. And obviously, don’t submerge your machine in water.”