Experts warn – air fryers aren’t always a smart swap for ovens

Air fryers are great for quick, crispy meals—but they aren’t a perfect replacement for your oven, according to culinary and energy experts.

In recent years, air fryers have exploded in popularity. These countertop gadgets promise crispy, fried-like results using little to no oil. Many people love them for being faster and healthier than deep fryers or even ovens. They’ve replaced slow cookers in some households and are used daily by fans who swear they make everything taste better.

But not everything belongs in an air fryer.

Some foods just don’t work in an air fryer

While air fryers shine when it comes to frozen foods, reheating leftovers, or cooking small meals, experts warn that not every ingredient is a good fit.

Popcorn, for instance, should never go in an air fryer. According to the Mirror, kernels can get stuck in the heating element, creating a real fire hazard. It’s simply not built for popping corn.

Another tricky item? Wet batter. If you’re craving fried chicken with a crispy outer layer, the air fryer might leave you disappointed. Unlike deep frying or baking in a hot oven, an air fryer may not reach the high heat needed to properly cook batter-coated foods. The result? A soggy, uneven mess.

Even vegetables like broccoli may turn out bland or dry without the proper seasoning or preparation.

Energy experts weigh in 

Many people believe air fryers save money because they cook quickly and use less electricity than ovens. But Martin Lewis, the well-known money-saving expert, says it depends on what and how much you’re cooking.

“Air fryers are good for small things that cook quickly,” he explained on This Morning. “But if you’re going to have to use your air fryer 15 different times for different items, you’d be better off using an oven for energy savings.”

He even suggested microwaving jacket potatoes instead of using an oven or air fryer to save time and money.

Steven Kipling from Which? echoed that view. “Air fryers don’t have the same capacity as ovens,” he said. “If you’re cooking large meals or in batches, the savings drop off fast. vens or hobs may still be more efficient for big jobs.”

Not everyone is ready to give them up

Despite the warnings, die-hard air fryer fans aren’t backing down.

One social media user joked, “I’m not listening to him on this. I’m air-frying everything. I’ll even air fry a cup of tea.”

It’s clear that for many people, the air fryer has earned a permanent place on the kitchen counter. Still, experts hope that users will consider when and how to use it safely and efficiently.

Air fryers are incredibly useful, but they’re not the answer for every meal. Understanding their limits—especially when it comes to safety and energy use—can help you make better cooking choices. So the next time you fire up your air fryer, ask yourself: Is this the best tool for the job?

What do you think—can you give up your air fryer, or is it too late to go back?

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