In recent years, air fryers have quietly taken over kitchens around the world. Once considered a novelty, these compact appliances are now replacing slow cookers—and, in some homes, even traditional ovens. With their promise of crispy results using little to no oil, it’s easy to see why so many people have embraced them.
Air fryers work by circulating extremely hot air at high speed, mimicking the effect of deep frying without submerging food in oil. For many everyday meals, they offer a faster, healthier alternative. But despite their popularity, experts say they’re not always the best tool for every job.
According to culinary professionals, certain foods simply don’t belong in an air fryer. Popcorn, for instance, poses a serious risk. Reports warn that loose kernels can become trapped near the heating element, potentially causing sparks or even fires. Wet batters are another common disappointment—while many hope for golden, crispy fried chicken, the air fryer often lacks the heat needed to properly set the coating, leaving behind a soggy mess.
Even vegetables can be hit or miss. Broccoli, for example, may lose flavor and texture compared to oven roasting or stovetop cooking, making the result far less satisfying.
Beyond food quality, there’s also the question of cost and efficiency. Consumer experts caution against relying on air fryers for every meal, especially when cooking multiple dishes.
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis addressed this issue on This Morning, explaining that air fryers are most efficient when used for small portions that cook quickly. “If you’re using your air fryer over and over again for different foods,” he said, “it can actually use more energy than turning on the oven once.”
He pointed out that simple choices matter too. Cooking a jacket potato for ten minutes in the microwave, for example, is far cheaper than baking a single potato in an oven for over an hour.
Steven Kipling from Which? echoed this sentiment, noting that air fryers quickly lose their cost advantage when cooking larger quantities. “They just don’t have the capacity of a standard oven or stovetop,” he explained. “If you’re feeding a family or preparing several dishes, traditional methods may still be the most economical.”
Still, not everyone is ready to part with their favorite gadget. Loyal air fryer users remain unapologetic.
“I’m not listening to that advice,” one fan joked online. “I’d air fry everything. I’d even air fry a cup of tea.”
So where do you stand? Is your air fryer an occasional helper—or the star of your kitchen?
