The air fryer has become immensely popular in kitchens worldwide due to its convenience and healthier cooking method. Still, improper use of this appliance can increase the ri.sk of foodborne illnesses.
Nutrition specialist named Nicola Shubrook explains that an air fryer cooks food by circulating hot air around it, resulting in crispy textures with less oil compared to traditional frying methods. It’s perfect for preparing items like fries and chicken wings.
In spite of its benefits, there are important safety precautions to follow to prevent food poisoning.
One of the most frequent errors is neglecting to clean the air fryer between uses. This habit can jeopardize your health.
For example, if raw or undercooked chicken contaminated with salmonella is cooked and the fryer isn’t cleaned afterward, bacteria can linger and contaminate subsequent meals. Salmonella bacteria are resilient and can survive on dry surfaces for up to 32 hours.
A food safety editor named Candess Zona-Mendola, emphasizes that using a dirty air fryer greatly raises the chances of cross contamination
Food safety expert Janilyn Hutchings also points out that leftover crumbs and bacteria build up if the fryer is not cleaned regularly, which compromises the safety of the next batch of food.
“Cleaning your fryer after every use is essential,” says Candess. “While it might seem like a chore, it’s actually quite straightforward. Using warm water and dish soap makes the job easier.”
She adds, “Allowing the fryer to soak briefly reduces the need for vigorous scrubbing. Just a few minutes of effort keeps your appliance hygienic and your kitchen smelling fresh.”
Keep in mind to avoid abrasive tools that could scratch the fryer’s non-stick coating during cleaning.
Other common air fryer mistakes include:
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